IMESAIMESAThe official magazine of the Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT • MAINTENANCE • SERVICE DELIVERY
Winner of the 2011 PICA Non-professional writer of the year
Insight Buying Proudly South African
Water5 million
benefit
SABITAWarm mix asphalt
I S S N 0 2 5 7 1 9 7 8 Vo l u m e 3 7 N o . 1 0 • O c t o b e r 2 0 1 2 • R 4 0 . 0 0 ( i n c l VAT )
MEDIA
he
a
WinnNon-p
tthhin tt
“It is our goal to assist in maximising service delivery” Dumi Sibandze, MD, Southern Mapping Geospatial
HOUSING EXCELLENCE
For your geomembrane lining requirements please contact:TEL FAX
EMAIL WEBSITE
Hazardous and toxic waste, raw water, potable water, effluent and sewage
AQUATAN – an SABS ISO 9001 company
IMIESA October 2012 1
IMESAIMESAThe official magazine of the Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT • MAINTENANCE • SERVICE DELIVERY
Winner of the 2011 PICA Non-professional writer of the year
Insight Buying Proudly South African
Water5 million
benefit
SABITAWarm mix asphalt
I S S N 0 2 5 7 1 9 7 8 Vo l u m e 3 7 N o . 1 0 • O c t o b e r 2 0 1 2 • R 4 0 . 0 0 ( i n c l VAT )
MEDIA
he
a
WinnNon-p
tthhin tt
“It is our goal to ultimately maximise service delivery” Dumi Sibandze, MD, Southern Mapping Geospatial
HOUSING EXCELLENCE
VOLUME 37 NO 10 OCTOBER 2012CONTENTS
Regulars3 Editor’s comment
5 President’s comment
News
9 Local government leadership is critical
Government perspective12 State-owned construction
company – debate needed
Industry perspective14 Building bridges for the breaking
Insight19 To import…or not to?
Water and wastewater25 Long-term water
requirements addressed
32 Municipal groundwater supply
SAPPMA Conference47 A holistic view of the
humble pipe
SABITA55 The benefits of warm mix asphalt
59 SABITA membership listing
61 Asphalt planer for diverse applications
62 Mobile crushing plant launched
64 Reduced fuel consumption for hydraulic breakers
Housing81 Integrated solutions at
Scottsdene
84 Free housing construction plans
87 R5 billion for housing projects
89 Reducing water losses
Asset management93 Integrated asset management
95 Remote environmental monitoring
CESA Aon Engineering Excellence Awards99 Publisher of the year
100 Winner: Projects valued in excess of R250 million
101 Commendation: Projects valued in excess of R250 million
103 Entry: Projects valued in excess of R250 million
104 Winner: Projects valued between R50 million and R250 million
105 Commendation: Projects valued between R50 million and R250 million
105 Winner: Projects valued at less than R50 million
13 Construction conundrum
25 Water deliver y
91 Water losses
106 Commendation: Projects valued at less than R50 million
107 Winner: Best International Project
108 Commendation: Best International Project
GIS111 Total Geo-spatial Information
Solutions now ISO certified
Waste management112 The way forward:
waste management
Education115 SAICE & WRC Water Competition
Municipal water116 Municipal invoices not
consumer friendly
Energy119 Biogas digesters installed in KZN
Municipal governance122 Reassessing municipal
management
123 Municipal electricity wired for success
Road equipment125 Bell previews new E-series ADT
126 Sustainable concrete roads
127 New road stabilisation product
128 Improving public transport
130 Facelift for Free State bridge
Water equipment131 Relocatable steel reservoirs
132 Reinforced soil at Bushkoppies WWTW
133 Historical wooden pipeline saved
134 PVC minimisation clause removed
135 Tough pumps for abrasive fluids
135 Online academy launched
136 Built-in protection for pumps
Products and services137 Township road construction
brochure available
137 Paving skills development
138 Paving specified for housing estate
139 Precast CRCP system developed
140 Unimog to Kalagadi well
140 A decade of growth for pump distributor
141 Failing retaining walls – are you covered?
143 Innovation and customer support
144 Record time achieved for supply contract
he theOT HOEATSE
in HS
Dumi Sibandze, MD, Southern Mapping Geospatial on managing municipalities 16
Cover Story CSM Consulting Services conducted the professional services needed for The Masimong 4 Community Residential Units project in Matjhabeng.
P6
PANEL DISCUSSIONThe latest products and services in road construction 67
Roelof JacobsLafarge South Africa 69Frank CattichVelocity Road Rehabilitation 71
Mark SmithCLM Positioning Solutions 73
Trevor FreestonePolokwane Surfacing 75
Pascal GarriochNational Cold Asphalt 77
Albert WeberTechnicrete 79
www.transtech.co.za
Contacts us on +27 (0)21 948 4746 email [email protected]
When sweeping with the C201 Compact, Johnston’s “Water Curtain” technology traps small dust particles (PM10 and PM2.5) helping air quality by preventing their airborne release into the environment. Link air quality to the reduced fuel consumption of the C201 in work mode – up to 40% less fuel than other sweepers in its class – plus Eco Mode fitted as standard for in-transit fuel savings, and the Johnston C201 Compact is one of the cleanest sweepers available. Finally with an annual reduction of CO2 to 16 tonnes, the Johnston C201 is an environmental winner.
Clear Air and Clean Streets
C201 – Refreshingly ClearThe
www.transtech.co.za
The VT650
Contacts us on +27 (0)21 948 4746 email [email protected]
The VT Range of truck mounted sweepers is now established as the most durable and dependable road sweeper ever produced by Johnston, a fact supported by our sweepers maintaining the highest residual value.
With more than 50 years of engineering expertise and design the VT Range leads the way, offering you years of outstanding performance.
You can choose your VT Range options from our selection of Customer Packs and save even more time, cost and labour.
Ask about our Contractor’s Pack, the Productivity Pack or our Eco Pack and you can be confident that whatever you specify, the VT Range from Johnston will provide you with the best solution in an ever demanding market.
Surprisinglyaffordable,totallydependable
IMIESA October 2012 3
EDITOR'S COMMENT
Richard Jansen van Vuuren Defying gravity
PUBLISHER Elizabeth ShortenASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Ferdie PieterseEDITOR Richard Jansen van VuurenHEAD OF DESIGN Frédérick DantonSENIOR DESIGNER Hayley MendelowSENIOR SUB-EDITOR Claire NozaicSUB-EDITOR Patience GumboCONTRIBUTORS Candice Landie, Helen Seyler, Andiswa Milisa, Kornelius Riemann, Nick Mannie, Greg AustinPRODUCTION MANAGER Antois-Leigh BotmaPRODUCTION COORDINATOR Jaqueline ModiseFINANCIAL MANAGER Andrew Lobban (ACIS, FCIBM)MARKETING AND ONLINE MANAGER Martin HillerADMINISTRATION Tonya HebentonDISTRIBUTION MANAGER Nomsa MasinaDISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Asha PursothamSUBSCRIPTIONS [email protected] United Litho Johannesburg +27 (0)11 402 0571___________________________________________________
ADVERTISING SALESJenny Miller Tel: +27 (0)11 467 6223___________________________________________________
PUBLISHER: MEDIA No. 4, 5th Avenue, Rivonia 2056PO Box 92026, Norwood 2117 Tel: +27 (0)11 233 2600 Fax: +27 (0)11 234 7274/5 E-mail: [email protected] www.3smedia.co.za
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION: R480.00 (INCL VAT) ISSN 0257 1978 IMIESA, Inst.MUNIC. ENG. S. AFR.© Copyright 2012. All rights reserved.___________________________________________________
IMESA CONTACTSIMESA Administration Officer: Ingrid BottonP O Box 2190, Westville, 3630Tel: +27 (0)31 266 3263Fax: +27 (0)31 266 5094Email: [email protected]: www.imesa.org.za
BORDER BRANCHSecretary: Melanie MatroosTel: +27 (0)43 705 2401Fax: +27 (0)43 743 5266E-mail: [email protected]
EAST CAPE BRANCHElsabé KoenTel: +27 (0)41 505 8005Fax: +27 (0)41 581 2300E-mail: [email protected]
KWAZULU-NATAL BRANCHSecretary: Rita ZaaymanTel: +27(0)31 311 6382
NORTHERN PROVINCE BRANCHSecretary: Cornel TaljaardTel: +27 (0)82 899 8341Fax: +27 (0)11 675 1324E-mail: [email protected]
SOUTHERN CAPE KAROO BRANCHSecretary: Henrietta OliverTel: +27(0)79 390 7536Fax: 086 536 3725E-mail: [email protected]
WESTERN CAPE BRANCHSecretary: Erica van JaarsveldTel: +27 (0)21 938 8455Fax: +27 (0)21 938 8457E-mail: [email protected]
FREE STATE AND NORTHERN CAPE BRANCHSecretary: Wilma Van Der WaltTel: +27(0)83 457 4362Fax: 086 628 0468E-mail: [email protected]
REST OF SOUTHERN AFRICARepresentative: Andre MullerE-mail: [email protected]
All material herein IMIESA is copyright protected and may not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the prior written permission of the publisher. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa or the publishers.
Cover opportunity In each issue, IMIESA offers advertisers the opportunity to get to the front of the line by placing a company, product or service on the front cover of the journal. Buying this position will afford the advertiser the cover story on pages and maximum exposure. For more information on cover bookings contact Jenny Miller on tel: +27 (0)11 467 6223.
t
IMESA
The official magazine of the Institute
of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT MAINTENANCE SERVICE DELIVERY
Winner of the 2011 PICA
Non-professional writer of the year
Water in Africa
Sustainable
operations
SASTTTrenchless
technology
HousingFinance
solutions
I S S N 0 2 5 7 1 9 7 8 Vo l u m e 3 7 N o . 9
R 4 0 . 0 0 ( i n c l VAT )
MEDIA
e
T
MERCEDES-BENZ
Powers pothole solution
“We provide a complete service for precast reinforced
hollow core slabs” Melinda Esterhuizen, Echo Group marketing director P16
t
IMMESASAIMIMMEMESESASAAAASA
RVICERVICRVICE DELIVERY
aryear year
ASSSTTTTTrennnccchhleessss
echhhnnnoologgy
HousingFinance
solutions
9
VAT )0 0 ( i n c l VAT )
R 4 0 . 0 0 ( i n c l VR 4 0 . 0 0
MEDIAMEDIA
NNNNNNNENENZZZZZZZlutlutlutlutlutlutlututlutlulutluttttlutu ioioionionionioniioiionnonn
r pprecast reinforced
Echo Group marketing director
Echo Group marketing director
Echo Group marketing director P16P16P16P16P1666P16
IMESAIMESAThe official magazine of the Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT • MAINTENANCE • SERVICE DELIVERY
Winner of the 2011 PICA Non-professional writer of the year
Insight Buying Proudly South African
Water5 million
benefit
SABITAWarm mix asphalt
I S S N 0 2 5 7 1 9 7 8 Vo l u m e 3 7 N o . 1 0 • O c t o b e r 2 0 1 2 • R 4 0 . 0 0 ( i n c l VAT )
MEDIA
he
a
WinnNon-p
tthhin tt
“It is our goal to ultimately maximise service delivery” Dumi Sibandze, MD, Southern Mapping Geospatial
HOUSING EXCELLENCE
THE UNITED STATES has never been
a shy nation. Everything is bigger and
better in ‘State-side’, or so it seems.
I was very surprised recently when
I read about the former mayor of Chicago’s
backing of a very unusual decision – this being
to reverse the flow of the Chicago River, AGAIN.
Yes, you read correctly. The flow of the
Chicago River was first reversed in 1900!
Chicago originally pumped untreated sew-
age into the Chicago River, which in turn
emptied into Lake Michigan. In an apt case of
not seeing the bigger picture, the lake soon
became the city’s primary source of fresh
drinking water.
As was to be expected, contagion soon ran
rampant and outbreaks of cholera and typhoid
claimed thousands of lives. So, in 1900, a
group of engineers, in an effort to keep the
lake clean, blocked the Chicago River's path
to the lake – effectively reversing the flow with
the construction of two canals directing the
water to run back
inland and eventu-
ally into the mighty
Mississippi River.
This ‘old-school’
engineering solu-
tion has now even-
tually led to a new problem. Several non-
indigenous species of fish are now migrating
up the Mississippi and are threatening the
lake’s ecosystem. In addition, three problems
still persist. Firstly, the lake level's contro-
versy remains. Since the channel system still
receives the treated effluent and overflow, it
is necessary for some diversion to provide
a current. When drought conditions in the
1980s hampered navigation on the Illinois
and Mississippi rivers, suggestions that the
Chicago diversion be increased were opposed
on the basis of the potential reduction in
lake levels.
Secondly, pollution continues to affect the
area. In 1969,
the Sanitar y
District adopted
an ordinance that forced pretreatment of indus-
trial pollutants at their source. It prohibited
discharges into Lake Michigan and reduced
those into the waterways. Although more than
90% of the district’s wastewater is treated, a
heavy rainfall or quickly melting snow can still
force the district to open the floodgates and let
raw sewage escape into the lake, violating the
spirit, if not the letter, of this law.
A 1972 federal law required area wide plan-
ning to control water pollution. The Tunnel
and Reservoir Plan (TARP), prepared by the
North-eastern Illinois Planning Commission,
with Sanitary District expertise, provided a
solution to the third problem, the lack of effi-
cient natural drainage in such a flat region. The
majority of the district has combined sewers
carrying both waste and stormwater. Heavy
rainstorms can overload the combined sewer
systems so that the sewers overflow into the
district’s waterways and flood low-lying areas.
Phase 1 of TARP, the anti-pollution phase,
which went into
operation in
1985, involved
the construc-
tion of 10 miles
(16.09 km) of
tunnels to cap-
ture the overflow. Phase 2, the anti-flooding
phase, calls for an additional 21 miles of tun-
nels plus three large reservoirs.
By re-reversing the flow of the river again
the non-indigenous species of fish will not be
able to reach the lake, and used water will
be recycled back to the lake instead of down
the Mississippi. The local engineering and
construction firms are eagerly awaiting the
passing of the plan as it will require a complete
overhauling of the city’s soon to be defunct
sewerage system.
I’m certain that I, and many of our readers,
will be learning about mega projects such as
this during October and November as IMIESA,
along with many of our readers, will be attend-
ing the SAFCEC, IMESA and CESA conferences.
See you there!
As was to be expected, contagion soon ran rampant and outbreaks of cholera and typhoid claimed thousands of lives
Global Innovative SolutionsSpecialist consulting engineering services through focused business units to meet client requirements in the fi elds of:
Working hand in hand with municipalities to provide service delivery outcomes that balance the technical and social needs of the community we serve.
• Water • Wastewater• Agriculture / Irrigation • Roads & Development• Housing• Environmental and Solid Waste• Electrical and Building Services• Project and Construction Management
116
96
Init
iati
ve
Services include:• Water and Wastewater Services• Solid Waste and Environmental Services• Geographic Information Systems• Underground Services Location• Infrastructure Refurbishment• Turnkey Solutions
Tel: +27(31) 535 6000 | Email: [email protected] www.boschmunitech.co.za
Tel: +27(31) 535 6000 | Email: [email protected] www.boschstemele.co.za
IMIESA October 2012 5
IMESAPRESIDENT'S COMMENT
shortcomings. Conference delegates will be
presented with professional papers on relevant
engineering topics and opportunities to meet,
network and exchange experience. There will
also be an extensive range of technology and
products exhibited, as well as technical tours
showcasing local engineering achievements.
Another opportunity to showcase engineering
achievements is at our biannual IMESA/CESA
Excellence Awards, which will be presented at
the opening cocktail function. The aim of these
awards is to recognise and promote innova-
tion, ingenuity and science in finding profes-
sional engineering solutions to the challenges
faced in responding to community needs,
environmental sustainability and financial sus-
tainability of municipal infrastructure.
Award categories include:
• structures and bridges
• water/wastewater
• roads/stormwater
• environment
• community upliftment
The entries this year provide ample evidence
of the quality and ability of our local resources
to meet the challenges of ‘Engineering for
Change’, and it will be an honour to present
the awards.
In closing,this is my last entry for this page–
my two year term in office terminates at the
end of October 2012. My special thanks to
all our readers, I hope you've enjoyed reading
my comments.
THE THEME FOR this year’s confer-
ence, ‘Engineering for Change’, is
appropriate in terms of technological
advancement occurring at the
greatest rate ever. Emphasis is on con-
tinually improving efficiency and output
while increasing the life expectancy of
infrastructure assets, with dwindling
natural resources.
Municipal engineering has undergone
a huge change in the last 10 years, with
less technical capacity in municipalities
and more reliance on government and
outside sources for funding and sup-
port. The quality and quantity of human
resources are also dwindling, while a
growing population has greater needs
and demands. The lack of economic
development and delivery of infrastruc-
ture in rural areas, together with unem-
ployment, has led to increasing migration
and urban influx, increasing the burden
on the resources within municipalities.
This year’s IMESA Conference is aimed at
using technology advances and changes in
infrastructure engineering to address these
by Jannie Pietersen, president of IMESA
The 76th IMESA Conference, to be hosted by the Southern Cape/Karoo branch in George from 24 to 26 October 2012, promises to be a special event in the unique and beautiful area of the Garden Route, the Klein Karoo and the Greater Karoo.
IMESA CONFERENCE
Addressing infrastructure challenges
Municipal engineering has undergone a huge change in the last 10 years
6 IMIESA October 2012
COVER STORY
Multidisciplinary This project was awarded Best Rental Housing Project – 2012 Free State Govern Mbeki Award. National Govern Mbeki Award 2012 runner up and 2012 SAHF category 2B award.
concluded in 2010. The MOU was geared towards the formation of a
partnership between the Free State provincial department, Matjhabeng
Municipality and Harmony Gold Mining Company to focus on converting
single quarter mining hostels into rental family units. The overall objec-
tive of the partnership was to upgrade existing units into sustainable and
acceptable tenancy, thereby providing high-quality living environments to
qualifying beneficiaries in the Welkom area.
A project steering com-
mittee, which includes the
Free State province, National
Depar tment of Human
Settlements, CSM Consulting
Services, Harmony Gold
Mining Company as well as
the Matjhabeng Local Municipality was set up and has been running
since the inception of the project. Masimong 4 was identified by the
steering committee as the first phase of the MOU.
CSM services include:
• application for approval of the project
• feasibility study for the project
• architecture
• civil engineering
• electrical engineering
• electronic engineering
• project management
• property management: design of plan and systems and ongoing
involvement acting as director on Amohela Property Management
• quantity surveying
• structural engineering.
Harmony Gold Mining company provided the folowing:
• bridging finance
• donation of land
• commercial and social amenities
CSM CONSULTING SERVICES conducted all the professional
services needed for this project. The Masimong 4
Community Residential Units (CRU) project in Matjhabeng is a public-
private partnership (PPP) development, where the Free State provincial
government, through the Department of Human Settlements, formed a
partnership with Matjhabeng Local Municipality and Harmony Gold Mining
Company to develop affordable rental housing for low income groups.
The Department of Human Settlements is
providing financing as well as the regulatory
and management framework, while Harmony
Gold Mining Company has donated land and
buildings, and also provided bridging finance
to the project. The rental housing units
developed are government-owned through
Matjhabeng Local Municipality and will not at any stage be transferred
to individual occupants.
CSM Consulting Services was commissioned to provide profes-
sional services for the design, facilitation and management of the
implementation of the programme. A Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU) on behalf of the Free State Department of Human Settlements
with Matjhabeng Municipality and Harmony Gold Mining Company was
Suffi cient effort was put in to ensure a cost-effective, low maintenance, well-run development
IMIESA October 2012 7
COVER STORY
excellence
• social development framework
• property management: acting as the director
on Amohela Property Management.
Duplication of developmentPrefeasibility studies and engineering services
scoping studies have already been completed
for other similar developments identified in
the MOU. CSM is of the professional opinion
that this development is not only replicable,
but can be implemented more cost-effectively,
depending on specific development objectives,
locality and size.
The minister of Human Settlements, Tokyo
Sexwale, officially opened the Masimong 4
estate on 20 June 2012 and stated that based
on the quality of development that he has
viewed during his visit, the next phase of the
development is approved.
Target marketThe target market for the development is for
tenants with an income of less than R3 500
per month. A small number of units have
been made available to Harmony Gold Mining
employees earning above R3 500, but this is
in line with the CRU policy that makes provision
for accommodating existing tenants in a CRU
development regardless of their income.
Apartments are rented at the following
monthly rates:
• bachelors unit – R500
• one-bedroom unit – R700
• two-bedroom unit – R1 000
• three-bedroom unit – R1 200.
Specific care in the design of the estate was
to reach the objective where CSM could, with
confidence, state that sufficient effort was put
in to ensure a cost-effective, low maintenance,
well-run development, which will host satisfied
tenants willing to continuously pay their rental in
time every month. This is proven by a consist-
ent 0% rental default.
Innovative engineeringConsideration into ongoing maintenance of the
estate after construction was a key aspect of
the design. It was a condition of the design
brief that maintenance will not be performed by
the local authority, but by the appointed prop-
erty manager. The property manager’s agent
therefore took part in all design decisions
ensuring that easy maintenance formed part
of the team's design decisions. Successes
reached in terms of planning and designs
consist of:
• Stormwater originally drained to the centre
of the clusters, from where it connected
to an elaborate open deep V channel and
underground system. Stormwater control
was changed to a predominantly over-
land system that is not only easier to
maintain, but also assisted in providing a
safer environment.
• Safety of tenure was achieved by the utilisa-
tion of biometric access control.
• Roads and parking were constructed with
paving rather than bitumen topped surface,
ensuring easier maintenance.
• Prepaid water meters (hot and cold) were
installed, again ensuring less cost in month-
ly meter reading and debtor control.
• Boreholes and storing of water for irriga-
tion was introduced to lessen the cost to
the tenant.
• TV antennas were installed as part of
the project to lessen the effect on the
aesthetics of the building, should tenants
start installing their own antennas at a
later stage.
• Solar geysers and energy efficient lighting
were installed to reduce electricity cost.
• The layout of the development ensured easy
service delivery in terms of emergency and
other services like refuse control.
CONTACT CSM
Tel: 0861 276 266 | Web: www.csmeng.co.za
IMIESA offers advertisers an ideal platform to ensure maximum exposure of their brand. Companies are afforded the opportunity of publishing a two-page cover story and a cover picture to promote their products to an appropriate audience. Please call Jenny Miller on +27 (0)11 467 6223 to secure your booking.
IME
SA
AF
FIL
IAT
E M
EM
BE
RS Afri-Infra [email protected]
AJ Broom Road Products [email protected]
Arup SA [email protected]
Aurecon [email protected]
Bigen Group Africa [email protected]
BKS Consulting Engineers [email protected]
BMK Consulting [email protected]
Bosch Stemele [email protected]
Bosch Munitech [email protected]
BVI Consulting Engineers [email protected]
CBI Consulting Engineers [email protected]
Civilconsult Consulting Engineers [email protected]
Civil & Blasting Solutions [email protected]
Concrete Manufacturers [email protected]
Corrosion Institute of Southern Africa [email protected]
CSIR Built Environment [email protected]
Davies Lynn & Partners [email protected]
Development Bank of SA [email protected]
DPI Plastics [email protected]
EFG Engineers [email protected]
Elster Kent Metering [email protected]
EnviroServ Waste Management [email protected]
Geotechnologies [email protected]
GLS Consulting [email protected]
Goba [email protected]
Hidrostal SA [email protected]
Huber Technology [email protected]
Hydro-comp Enterprises [email protected]
I@Consulting [email protected]
Iliso Consulting [email protected]
Infraset [email protected]
Jeffares and Green [email protected]
Johannesburg Water [email protected]
Kgatelopele Consulting [email protected]
Knowledge Base [email protected]
Lektratek Water [email protected]
Makhaotse Narasimulu & Associates [email protected]
Maragela Consulting Engineers [email protected]
Much Asphalt [email protected]
Nyeleti Consulting [email protected]
Odour Engineering Systems [email protected]
PD Naidoo & Associates Consulting Engineers [email protected]
Power Construction [email protected]
Pumptron [email protected]
Pragma Africa [email protected]
Rocla [email protected]
Royal HaskoningDHV [email protected]
SBS Water Systems [email protected]
Sektor Consulting [email protected]
Sight Lines [email protected]
SiVEST SA [email protected]
SNA Inc [email protected]
Siza Water Company [email protected]
Southern African Society for Trenchless Technology [email protected]
SRK Consulting [email protected]
Sulzer Pumps Wastewater [email protected]
Syntell [email protected]
Thm Engineers East London [email protected]
TPA Consulting [email protected]
UWP Consulting [email protected]
Vela VKE [email protected]
WorleyParsons [email protected]
WSP Group Africa [email protected]
WSSA [email protected]
Zebra Surfacing [email protected]
IMESA
IMIESA October 2012 9
NEWS
BUT LEADERSHIP ON its own is not
enough, and local governments are
failing to build the capabilities they
need to overcome the challenge of
execution in several key areas, such
as adequate financing, implementa-
tion planning, and comprehensive per-
formance and risk management.
These are some of the findings in the latest
PwC report focusing on the challenges facing
today’s cities and local government organisa-
tions entitled: Making it happen – A roadmap
for South African municipalities to achieve
desired outcomes.
This year’s survey of local, district and met-
ropolitan municipalities confirms that leader-
ship is critical to the development and execu-
tion of an organisation’s strategy. But with
public, private and voluntary sector organisa-
tions collaborating to deliver public services,
all stakeholders need to be aligned in order to
maximise the chances of success and being
able to do more with less.
The study was under taken by
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC). It covers
local, district and metropolitan municipalities
across all of South Africa’s nine provinces.
The findings in the report are based on 36
completed surveys. This research follows an
international study carried out by PwC of local
government leaders around the world, which
also confirms that leadership is critical to the
development and execution of an organisa-
tion’s strategy.
Jan Gey van Pittius, PwC director and local
government subject matter exper t, says:
“While we agree that sound leadership is
crucial to the implementation of strategy, in
our view leadership on its own is not enough.
The study discloses that, of the other internal
management capabilities needed to accom-
plish a city’s vision, local governments are
falling short in some key areas.”
These key areas are:
• Financing: More than half (56%) of munici-
palities see financing as the biggest
Leadership for local government is criticalA PwC report states that inspirational leadership is critical if cities implement their strategies and deliver the outcomes their stakeholders deserve.
SERVICE DELIVERY
barrier to implementing strategies. There
also appears to be a lack of capability to
make plans resilient to the financial chal-
lenges. Less than a third (31%) of respond-
ents reported having a strategic plan, under-
pinned by a financial plan with key risks
properly assessed and mitigated.
• Implementation planning: Only one in three
(30%) of municipalities has a comprehen-
sive implementation plan, with accountabili-
ties and responsibilities in place, together
with frequent monitoring, updating and risk
mitigation.
• Supporting frameworks, tracking systems
and performance management: Outcome
assessment and sourcing (both 53%) were
cited as the biggest challenges to service
delivery. Only one in five (19%) of respond-
ents has a comprehensive per formance
management framework in place that is
aligned to the municipality’s strategic objec-
tives and supported by transparent report-
ing of per formance.
Van Pittius says it is encouraging to note
that all respondents have a strategic vision.
“However, it is concerning to note that only
just over half (56%) say that this vision is
being implemented, having an impact and
being regularly kept up to date.
“A vision on its own is not enough. It
needs to set the overall scene and
direction for growth and develop-
ment for the municipality. The
shorter-term strategies (integrat-
ed development plan and spatial
development framework) should take
the vision (growth and development
strategy) as a blueprint, and their
formulation should be done with
the involvement of key internal and
external stakeholders.”
The study also shows that almost two in
six (42%) of municipalities reported that
their organisations’ strategies were ‘com-
pletely integrated with the strategic visions’.
For 39%, the level of integration is not
complete as there are gaps and a lack of
full integration.
“In our view, municipal managers need a
clear and deliverable strategy setting out the
focus for the organisation, what is driving it
and what it does best and why. The ability to
respond to a constantly changing environment
through sensitivity to market forces and hav-
ing visibility of the future impact; and a clear
mandate for change that is driven through the
organisation,” says Van Pittius.
Service delivery: The challenge of assessing outcomesIn carrying out the research for this report,
PwC looked more closely at the service deliv-
ery cycle of municipalities to understand the
key challenges being faced by local govern-
ments. According to 53% of respondents, the
greatest challenges are posed by sourcing
and outcome assessments.
The study indicates that the majority of
local governments (94%) is reaching out to
The study indicates that the majority of local governments (94%) is reaching out to their external stakeholders in designing and implementing their strategies
NEWS
IMIESA October 2012 11
Creating community skills development.
SABS approved product from CMA members.
For supply and technical advice visit the CMA website.
Quality paved roads for every setting.
A CONCRETE PAVED ROAD FOR ALL
www.cma.org.za
their external stakeholders in designing and
implementing their strategies. Most local
governments report the need to par tner col-
laboratively with city officials, followed by
residents (44%) and to a lesser
extent, businesses (36%). Local
governments also appear to have
a need to par tner with private
(89%), public (86%) and voluntary
(64%) sector providers to deliver
their strategies effectively.
Key success factorsOnly one in five (22%) of local governments
strongly agree and just over half agree (58%)
that they have been successful in implement-
ing their strategies.
Leadership is seen as by far the most
important factor in enabling the implementa-
tion of a strategy with more than two-thirds
(69%) of local governments emphasising this
factor. There are some strong barriers to
the successful implementation of a strategy.
The most important of these identified by
respondents is finance (56%). Over two in five
of respondents (42%) see innovation as the
second most significant obstacle.
The research suggests that smaller organi-
sations are more likely to involve all levels
in a highly collaborative process and have
less negative impact on the implementa-
tion of strategies arising from the number
of decision-making levels and complexity in
their organisations. Fur thermore, most of
the respondents from the relatively small-
er municipalities believe that per formance
monitoring is the biggest challenge in the
service delivery cycle, whereas larger local
government respondents believe it to be an
outcome assessment.
“We believe that there is an urgent need
for cities and local government organisations
to prioritise their activities and develop a
road map to ensure they have in place the
internal capabilities and external relation-
ships needed to deliver efficient and effec-
tive strategies. With the mantra
‘do the same with less’ ringing
in their ears, local governments
must focus on outcomes in order
to make things happen,” states
Van Pittius.
The suggested ‘agenda for action’
should include:
1. investing in their capabilities around
financing
2. redesigning their organisations to enable
more effective collaboration with primary
stakeholders
3. assessing the impact of their size and
scale, seeking out ways to standardise,
simplify and streamline their operations
4. introducing systems to measure outcomes
and value for money
5. developing implementation plans with
clear roles, responsibilities and timetables
for actions.
Only one in fi ve of local governments strongly agree and just over half agree that they have been successful in implementing their strategies
12 IMIESA October 2012
GOVERNMENT PERSPECTIVE
SEXWALE MAINTAINS, however, that
the R50 billion rectification bill is
forcing his hand.
“I cannot continue giving money to
people whose sole mission is to undermine
the work of government. We want to see you
succeeding, creating wealth and being profita-
ble. At the same time we want quality delivery.
What we have been getting in the past is less
than pleasing, shoddy work,” states Sexwale.
The triple challenges of poverty, inequality
and unemployment means that the government
and the industry, the very foundation of infra-
structure development in the country, have to
change course.
The South African economy is going through
tough times forcing the Gross Domestic
Product to be revised from 2.9 to 2.7%, large-
ly influenced by what is happening in the
global economy.
President Jacob Zuma saw it fit to establish
the Presidential Infrastructure Coordination
Commission in line with the country’s New
Growth Path. This would see over R800 billion
being invested in infrastructure over the next
few years.
Human Settlements occupies a very pivotal
role in infrastructure development because
whatever the country does, it had to think
about where people lived first as they could not
live on freeways and harbours.
Sexwale asks: “Why not give the Human
Settlements budget of R25 billion a year
to major companies that would be forced
to bring in their partners into the low cost
housing sector?”
Establishment of a state-owned construction company
DEBATE NEEDED
Human Settlements Minister, Tokyo Sexwale, says no decision has been taken as yet to establish a state-owned construction company, but he wants a debate on the issue to address the shoddy workmanship that characterises low-cost housing.
IMIESA October 2012 13
GOVERNMENT PERSPECTIVE
“We want people who are credible, people
who pay attention to detail, people who have
the know-how and who can provide us with
quality work. We are gatvol, fed-up… We want
taxpayers to feel that it is worth it to pay their
taxes,” he says.
Governments worldwide are known to be
very ineffective, characterised by stinking cor-
ruption and nepotism, but this does not mean
that the idea of a state construction company
is not going to work in South Africa. It is work-
ing in Brazil.
This also does not mean that government
is going to control 100% of the state-owned
construction company. Management of such
a company can remain with the private sector.
“I cannot continue doing this job knowing
that the figure of R50 billion will escalate and
we keep on going to the same people (who are
the cause of the problem in the first place) to
rectify. I need your help to find out what it is
that you are thinking,” maintains Sexwale.
Sanitation task team reportThe Sanitation Task Team, appointed by
Sexwale last September to look at the chal-
lenge of unclosed toilets in the country, found
that there is no compliance to the norms
and standards in the implementation of the
programme. Briefing the Portfolio Committee
on Human Settlements on the findings of the
Task Team in parliament recently, Sexwale said
the lack of compliance led to poor operation
and maintenance of sanitation facilities and
infrastructure by municipalities designated as
Water Services Authorities.
The report has also found, among others, that:
• Local authorities are not using the annual
Municipal Infrastructure Grant allocation of
R7 billion for water and sanitation, rerouting
it to other priorities instead.
• As a result, municipalities are not adequately
planning for the sanitation programme in
their budgets.
• Government has delivered over 2.5 million
sanitation facilities since 1994, halving the
backlog by 2010.
• Rural and urban communities are
generally serviced.
• More settlements are connected to the
grid (waterborne).
• Informal settlements dwellers on privately
owned land are severely underserviced.
The Ministerial Sanitation Task Team recom-
mends that sanitation become a national prior-
ity of government, something that has been
achieved following a decision by the recent
Cabinet Lekgotla to elevate it to one of the
Strategic Infrastructure Projects.
“The first thing for common people, the
first infrastructure before a road and airpor t
and all these things, even before a house, is
a toilet. Sanitation is the first line of defence
for human dignity,” says Sexwale.
Sanitation must remain a national priority,
until the last person in South Africa found
dignity – not behind a tree or a rock.
There was something wrong in buying
arms, which were impor tant but not criti-
cal to the country at the time when there
was pressing socio-economic imperatives,
states Sexwale.
“If only a quar ter of that money would have
been given to housing and sanitation… If
you cannot deliver that (sanitation), people
cannot trust you with delivering houses and
other things. If we can’t provide this one,
then we are not wor th the trust people have
invested in us.”
Sexwale also announced that he will
request the Special Investigating Unit to see
if people who are responsible for the “sloppy
work” in the delivery of sanitation cannot be
brought to book.
Housing challenges in the Free StateFollowing the Por tfolio Committee’s visit to
the Free State in September 2011 as par t
of its Parliamentary oversight mandate, it
expressed disquiet about the state of hous-
ing delivery by the provincial human settle-
ments depar tment in that province.
Upon invitation for a briefing to Parliament
by the Por tfolio Committee led by Nomhle
Dambuza, Sexwale repor ted to the commit-
tee, inter alia, as follows:
• The National Depar tment of Human
Settlements has established as far back
as 2010 that there is serious cause for
concern around housing grant expenditure
totals, which do not tally with the amount
of units delivered on the ground.
• At the time, this led to the Human
Settlements MINMEC – a committee of all
provincial human settlements MECs and the
minister – taking a decision to reallocate
certain funds to other provinces to avoid
non-performance and failure of delivery.
• National Treasury also become involved and
indicated their concerns around the Free
State issue.
• On 16 May this year, the office of the
Auditor-General independently dispatched
a team led by Paul Serote to the Free
State, and having interacted with human
settlements officials presented disconcert-
ing analysis and findings on the housing
delivery situation in the province. These
included wrongful housing allocation by
senior managers, irregular expenditure
of more than R500 million, houses built
without being registered with the NHBRC,
houses recorded on the Housing Subsidy
System that could not be physically verified,
advanced payments to suppliers on behalf
of contractors; and so on.
• The full and detailed report beyond the brief-
ing to the Portfolio Committee will be tabled
before the cabinet for remedial action.
“We want people who are credible, people who pay attention to detail, people who have the know-how and who can provide us with quality work.” Tokyo Sexwale
14 IMIESA October 2012
INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE
The finals of the annual BKS-SAICE International Bridge Building Competition organised by the South African Institution of Civil Engineering were recently held at St Albans College in Pretoria.
Building bridges… for the breaking!
THE COMPETITION attracted par tici-
pation of approximately 600 schools
countr ywide, as well as from
Namibia and Zimbabwe. The final-
ists from all the regions, organised by the
South African Institution of Civil Engineering
(SAICE) branches countrywide, competed for
the much sought-after shield and the cash
prize for team members and their schools.
The 2012 winners are the Domino Servite
School from Pietermaritzburg with its bridge
weighing 130 g, which carried 87 kg before
it succumbed! The team consisted of Janek
Stegen, Luke Allen and Johnny Pop. The
second place went to Merrifield College in
East London, with team members Dakota
Corbett, Mitchell Struwig and Vasco Mendes.
The team’s bridge weighed 160 g and car-
ried 75 kg. Technical High School Daniel
Pienaar from Uitenhage came third with a
bridge weighing 155 g and withstood 63 kg
before destruction. Its team consisted of
Frank Ferreira, Nicholas Coetzee and Anroe
Steyn-Clulow. For the three teams to reach
the winning marks of 156, 114 and 105
respectively, aspects such as aesthetics,
the mass of the bridge and, ultimately, the
weight-bearing capacity determined the win-
ning bridge.
The bridge building kits contained 25 sticks
of 3 mm nominal thickness, glue and a little
string. Construction is done according to a
technical briefing given on the day. The teams
then got down to the gruelling business
of planning, designing, measuring, cutting
dowel sticks and constructing the bridges
by gluing everything together to form sturdy
bridge structures, while racing against the
clock towards ‘tools-down’ time. The bridges
were then left to dry for a few hours. The
adjudicators completed their task regarding
the aesthetics and weight of the bridges.
SAICE initiated the bridge building competi-
tion in 1991 to fur ther high school learners’
use of mathematics and science in an engi-
neering context to grow the profession. It has
since become an enormous success and is
enjoyed by all. The bridge building competi-
tion forms an integral par t of some schools’
activities and is recognised on the same
level as academic or sports achievements.
In some schools it has been incorporated as
par t of the curriculum.
Because of its practical and hands-on
nature, this event is SAICE’s most success-
ful initiative in attracting learners to civil
engineering, as well as promoting a general
awareness of the profession. The compe-
tition provides an ideal career guidance
opportunity. The camaraderie that develops
among the various competing teams during
their stay gives learners the opportunity to
also build bridges between people, cultures
and countries!
TOP Intense concentration is essential
LEFT The competitors constructing their bridges
Through a sound understanding of and partnership with the public sector, Nedbank provides the funding and banking expertise needed to help the country meet the challenges of infrastructure development. Just one of the ways we embrace our responsibilities to make a difference.
For more information email us at [email protected].
NET#
WO
RK BBDO
8014623 SUPPORTING THE PUBLICSECTOR IN INFRASTRUCTURE
DEVELOPMENT.
Nedbank Lim
ited Reg No 1951/
000009/06, VAT Reg N
o 4320116074, 135 Rivonia Road, Sandown, Sandton, 2196, South A
frica. We subscribe to the C
ode of Banking Practice of The Banking Association South A
frica and, for unresolved disputes, support resolution through the O
mbudsm
an for Banking Services. We are an authorised financial services provider. W
e are a registered credit provider in terms of the N
ational Credit A
ct (NC
R Reg No N
CRC
P16).
16 IMIESA October 2012
HOT SEAT
Please provide a brief background on Southern Mapping Geospatial. Southern Mapping Geospatial is
a division of Southern Mapping.
It was launched in 2010 to focus
independently on the South
African geographic information
systems (GIS) market with the
existing technology available
through Southern Mapping. As I
have extensive experience as a
commercial pilot and am familiar
with the technologies used, I was
approached to head the company.
We are South Africa’s only Level
1 BEE aerial survey company.
What technologies does Southern Mapping Geo-spatial make use of and
how are these used to assist municipal manage-ment? Recent technological
advancements in airborne and
satellite imaging stand to benefit
municipalities. High-resolution
satellite coverages of all mu-
nicipalities year on year since
2006, are already available free
of charge. These images allow
for powerful analysis of formal
and informal urban growth, and
are essential inputs to Spatial
Development Frameworks (SDFs)
and Integrated Development
Plans (IDPs). In conjunction with
the vast amount of high-resolution
satellite imagery being utilised for
municipal planning, is the rapidly
expanding use of airborne LiDAR
(light detection and ranging).
This technology allows for up to
200 000 survey accurate height
measurement, to be captured per
second from an aerial platform
using laser technology. This
translates into the ability to
survey each square meter of an
area the size of Johannesburg
every four days, a task that would
take a conventional surveyor
a lifetime. The same airborne
LiDAR data used for engineering
design is also being utilised by
other municipal departments
allowing for cross subsidisation of
the data investment. The output
imagery (up to 5 cm resolution)
and accompanying height meas-
urements allow for efficiencies in
engineering design for town-
ship establishment, road, rail,
power, sanitation and water bulk
service infrastructure projects
as demonstrated by Southern
Mapping Geospatial's delivery
of full coverage LiDAR for the
municipalities of Johannesburg
and Mogale City. Disaster risk
management is another municipal
function area that is benefiting
from the rich content of LiDAR.
By utilising high-resolution digital
elevation models in flood model-
ling software, flood risk maps are
easily generated as demonstrated
by Southern Mapping Geospatial
in Alexandra township in the City
of Johannesburg. Cutting-edge
airborne hyperspectral cameras
Disaster risk management is another municipal function area that is benefi ting from the rich content of lidar
Hyperspectral technology is able to provide quantitative information on two key water quality indicators. Organic water quality through direct measurement of Chlorophyll-a concentrations in water and turbidity. By mapping these water quality indicators, it is possible to determine not only where water quality source points occur but also the likely contributors
GIS TECHNOLOGY
The eye in the skyGIS can provide a wealth of information necessary for municipalities to manage not only their geographic topography, but also social dynamics and urban sprawl, pollution and resources. Richard Jansen van Vuuren finds out exactly how this is done from Dumi Sibandze, MD of Southern Mapping Geospatial.
MANAGING MUNICIPALITIES
IMIESA October 2012 17
HOT SEAT
have the ability to map water
quality by accurately mapping lev-
els of chlorophyll a and b in water
bodies and rivers, thus pinpoint-
ing organic pollution sources. By
also accurately measuring water
turbidity, which is generally a
function of erosion and mining
activities, it is possible to discern
not only organic pollution sources
but also those from mining and
construction sectors. Airborne
technology is also able to assist
with infrastructure monitoring and
maintenance function of munici-
palities. Utilising airborne thermal
cameras, Southern Mapping
Geospatial is actively monitoring
pipeline and industrial infrastruc-
ture to detect leaks and areas
prone to failure.
In what areas of munici-pal management can all of these technologies as-sist? Satellite and airborne imag-
ing technologies are able to assist
municipal housing, engineering,
disaster, infrastructure mainte-
nance and monitoring, and plan-
ning functions. Southern Mapping
Company’s experience in these
fields is unprecedented. Being the
only local black-owned geospatial
firm offering these services, it is
our goal to share this experience
with the local government sector
– ultimately to maximise service
delivery. The provision of free and
rich image data sets, coupled with
our access to free open source
GIS systems (with our University
of Pretoria accredited training), is
one of the ways we intend achiev-
ing this.
Business in such a spe-cialised field must have limited access to young talent. How does South-ern Mapping Geospatial address this issue? Southern Mapping Geospatial is
extremely proud to be associ-
ated with Continuing Education
at University of Pretoria, South
Africa’s leading provider of work-
place training solutions for career
professionals, to present a short
course in Quantum GIS (QGIS).
The short course will be offered
on a postgraduate level with the
aim of supplying valuable educa-
tion to individuals wishing to grow
in their fields.
QGIS is an open source GIS
software package, but it goes
much further than that; the idea
of open and free data coupled
with an open source GIS software
package is priceless. This educa-
tion drive by Southern Mapping
Geospatial will expose to the GIS
community at all levels that there
is another software option out in
the market. Southern Mapping
Geopspatial provides lectures on
our cutting edge technologies at
various universities and through
this, identify candidates for our
internship programme which
currently stands at five sudents
per year.
Southern Mapping Geospatialt +27 (0)11 467 2609
www.southernmapping.com
Left Multi-temporal satellite image coverage over south-western Polokwane. Note the rapid increase in RDP developments (in the north and south), and the subsequent reduction of informal housing units (centre) showing the positive effect of housing delivery in this area
Below High-resolution aerial photography of Kendal Power station.
Lidar surveys that provide extremely accurate height positions of infrastructure
are accompanied with high resolution aerial images
such as this and can be used for detailed planning and
mapping in GIS or CAD environments
“Aquadam’s Muleby Tanks are youraffordable, reliable and customised
solution to liquid storage of any type.”– One of Aquadam’s many satisfied clients
Known as the Muleby System Tank, Aquadam’s Pre-stressed Panel Reservoir is a highly effective storage solution. This money-saving post-tensioned circular concrete tank is extremely durable. The pre-casting process ensures a high resistant to corrosion and chemical attack. This high resistance allows for the usage in potable water up to sewage treatment plants.
Muleby System Tanks can be used in any number of liquid storage applications and are available in a wide range of custom-designed volumes. Installation is quick and can take place in almost all weather conditions.
Muleby System Tanks uses a highly effective con-struction method requiring less labor, less time on-site and virtually no concrete moulding shutters. Dangerous erections or constructions on heights are kept to a minimum and the relatively slender panels keep transport costs in check. The panels are pre-casted in a controlled factory environment, offering better quality control and faster production.
Aquadam’s Muleby Tanks are designed to exacting standards and meet the highest European standard of water tightness, Eurocode 2, part 3 Liquid retaining and containment structures.
Pretoria Tel: 012 - 810 0940 021 - 905 7943Contact
Muleby Tanks installed by Famitec.
Manholes, anchorages etc.
are cast as required, and the system can be
closed with a pre-castor cast-in-situ roof.
Pre-cast concrete panels are assembled on-site on a cast-in-situ
bottom slab.
WATERTIGHT SOLUTIONS
The system is post-tensioned
using horizontal circumferential mono
strands.
SA’s leading manufacturer of liquid storage tanks and gunite-based,
seamless, reinforced Concrete Reservoirs.
IMIESA October 2012 19
INSIGHT
To be or not to BEE
LOCAL CONTENT, high-quality
products, fair labour practic-
es and environmental stand-
ards – these are the top four
factors that determine a company’s Proudly South African status.
By opting for products that carry this local stamp, consumers, busi-
nesses and government make a personal contribution to building the
nation and economy. According to the Proudly South Africa Campaign,
buying South African stimulates an increased demand for locally pro-
duced products and services. This translates into the safeguarding of
existing employment opportunities, economic growth and the creation
of more quality employment opportunities in our country.
The World Cup that wasIn order to complete the 2010 World Cup projects on time, budgets
were pushed to the limit and, in some cases, stretching even fur ther.
The effect: an almost instant drawback in government funding fol-
lowing the big event. BMI reported that real growth decelerated from
7.8% year-on-year (2009) to 0.9% in 2010, and continued to weigh
heavy on South African construction companies in 2011 – result-
ing in a drop in share prices. The medium-term outlook for the local
South African manufacturers can find competing on the global market challenging
Following South Africa’s 2011 post-World Cup hangover, Business Monitor International noted a gradual return to slow yet steady economic growth, with a GDP of 2.7% reported in 2012. However, international threat reigns supreme for the local construction sector, with the industry experiencing a severe hangover from pre-World Cup excesses, IMIESA reports.
Wastewater never tasted so sweet.
· Full outsourced operation· On-site laboratories supported by SANAS accredited Talbot Laboratories· Dedicated team of technicians, process controllers, process specialists and engineers· Call centre to respond to process failures and maintenance breakdowns· Customised process controller training and skills transfer· Engineering and process audits· Green drop assessments
By using Talbot Operations’ dedicated, multi-disciplinary team to operate, manage and maintainyour Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant, you can rest assured that keeping your discharge compliant
will always be a priority. We tailor our solutions to suit your needs and with every detail
from testing to maintenance covered, you can simply sit back and enjoy.
+27 (0) 33 346 LABORATORIES ENGINEERING GREEN ENERGY OPERATIONS
IMIESA October 2012 21
INSIGHT
construction industry was a carefully calcu-
lated positive one of 2.5% forecast for 2012.
Year of infrastructureAccording to President Jacob Zuma’s State of
the Nation address, 2012 has been dubbed
the ‘year of infrastructure’. Clearly identified
infrastructure projects have been strategically
identified across the country, and the Eastern
Cape is finally receiving its long overdue
budget allocation. The Department of Public
Works is also on a drive to transform the built
environment, including the maintenance of
current structures. Great hype has been cre-
ated around the department’s new job driver:
the New Growth Path, which stresses the need
for substantial public investment in infrastruc-
ture. Although the much-anticipated R3.2 tril-
lion-infrastructure budget has been allocated
provincially, there are still concerns from the
private sector that the actual projects are yet
to manifest. There seems to be no urgency in
unlocking the massive infrastructure capital
made available by National Treasury.
But with ageing infrastructure rearing its
ugly head and the country’s housing situation
in dire straits, the spotlight is on government
to deliver on its infrastructure mandate. The
private sector has been in negotiations with
government over numerous issues, rang-
ing from skills
development and
training through
to corruption and
failure to pay con-
tractors and con-
sultants on time. However, the issues of local
supply and BEE are also burning concerns
that need to be tackled head on.
A local supplier’s perspective The number one problem arising from import-
ed products is whether these materials are
built or even suited for local conditions? This
could be a good reason as to why the country
battles with the state of its infrastructure
over the long-term. Is price being selected
over quality, job creation and local economic
growth? IMIESA
chats to market-
ing executive of
Dynamic Fluid
Control, Charl
Myburgh, on the
company’s experiences with local govern-
ment and tender processes.
DFC manufactures valves for the water,
wastewater, mining and mineral processing
industries and its biggest customers are
therefore water authorities and bulk water
suppliers such as the Department of Water
Affairs and Rand Water. We asked Myburgh
about the tender process with local govern-
ment and the clout DFC’s BEE status holds,
if any. Normally, local government has a
minimal prescribed technical requirement but
eventually, it will opt to buy from the cheap-
est supplier, regardless of which country
the product is being imported from.” When
it comes to smaller orders, these are usu-
ally narrowed down to the cheapest of three
quotes. With cheap labour and manufacturing
costs, it’s no surprise that most products are
imported from the East. “What happens is, a
one- or two-man organisation comes along, is
Infrastructure projects have been strategically identifi ed across the country
Tender processes can be detrimental to local manufacturers if imported goods can be supplied at a lower cost
22 IMIESA October 2012
INSIGHT
fully BEE compliant, gets awarded the tender
and then imports the products from our Asian
competitors. Who runs a follow-up on these
companies? What lengths does government
go to in order to ensure the products are not
being imported but locally manufactured?”
Myburgh continues.
DFC is a Level 2 BEE
contributor and employs
about 300 people. The
company is also dedi-
cated to community
upliftment and skills
development, but these
factors are very easily overlooked when
pitching for a tender. “Within reason, we try
to source all our materials locally. We pay
and employ local people and in doing so, we
continue to support local business in South
Africa,” he explains.
There will always be a battle regarding the
cost to manufacture products in South Africa
versus the cost to manufacture products in
Asian countries, says Myburgh. He believes
the reason for this is very simple – many peo-
ple in China work 14 hour-days, with very little
time off – quoting an article taken from The
Shanghai Times, Simon Perry interviewed with
a worker at a factory on the outskir ts of the
city, the staff member who quoted “one month
I worked 30 days out of 31 nd did over time
everyday and I still only made 1 200 Yuan.”
These working conditions do not raise any
red flags as it is considered the norm in
those countries. In South Africa, companies
are under scrutiny from the Labour Act, which
sets out clear working conditions, working
hours and salary indications for labourers.
“It’s very simple: local job creation grows
the local economy.
Of course one has
to import from time
to time but the local
guys must be given
preference.”
Despite the com-
pany’s commitment to supporting local, DFC
also has some of the best manufacturing
facilities in the world – boasting a plant in
the US, Finland and two sales offices in
Australia. “So, no one can tell us we don’t
have the technology or know-how to deliver
on a job,” Myburgh reiterates.
The bigger pictureAnother point to consider with regard to
impor ted products is transpor tation and
logistics. It is undeniable that transporta-
tion is a considerable cause of greenhouse
gases. Consider then the absurd amount
of carbon dioxide and other gas emissions
released into the atmosphere when bringing
in products from the East as opposed to
transporting from Johannesburg to Durban?
What about health hazards? In 2007, two
out of three recalls were for products from
China. Out of 447 products recalled for
safety reasons, 298 were produced in China.
The pet food recall was just one example
where an imported product – vegetable pro-
tein – created a massive recall. The Mattel
toy recall was another widespread problem of
Chinese imports due to lead paint and small
ingestible magnets. There have also been
recalls on baby carriers, oscillating fans,
air pumps, children’s toys and even circular
saws in just 2007 alone.
Every time imported goods are purchased,
we indirectly support the processes behind
the manufacture of those products and also
the manner in which they are transported.
So, whether you are awarded a tender as a
supplier, contractor or consultant, remember
to think twice before opting for imported
products.
Consider the quality of the end prod-
uct, consider the manufacturing process,
consider local job creation, consider the
environment and, most impor tantly, con-
sider building the South African economy.
Let’s utilise local skills and products wher-
ever possible!
It is undeniable that transportation is a considerable cause of greenhouse gases
The quality of products is often not considered when comparing quotations
THE OLD SHANGHAI FIRECRACKER FACTORY 702944
OUR
VALU
E CH
AIN
PART
NERS
With
the
cho
ice
betw
een
two
unco
mpr
omis
ingl
y po
wer
ful e
ngin
e m
akes
, the
New
Gen
erat
ion
Frei
ghtli
ner
Argo
sy o
ff ers
enh
ance
d fu
el e
cono
my,
sup
rem
e en
gine
res
pons
e an
d th
e br
ute
stre
ngth
of a
real
cha
mpi
on. Y
ou w
ould
n’t e
xpec
t any
thin
g le
ss fr
om th
e he
ro o
f lon
g ha
ul.
*
WWW.F
REIG
HTLIN
ER.C
O.Z
A
IMIESA October 2012 25
WATER AND WASTEWATER
The DWA is exploring options to meet the long-term water requirements of almost five million domestic and industrial water users in the Durban and Pietermaritzburg regions of KwaZulu-Natal.
Long-term water requirements in KZN’s coastal region
TO THIS END, the Department of Water
Affairs (DWA) is currently implement-
ing the Technical Feasibility Study as
part of the uMkhomazi Water Project
Phase 1 (uMWP 1).
The uMkhomazi River is the third-largest
river in KwaZulu-Natal in terms of mean annual
runoff (MAR), but is largely undeveloped. This
proposed new water scheme will transfer
water from the uMkhomazi River to the exist-
ing Mgeni System, thereby developing the
uMkhomazi River and augmenting water sup-
plies to the downstream users and ensuring
that the area’s long-term water demands can
be met. Once completely developed, phases
1 and 2 of the uMWP will be the largest water
transfer scheme in South Africa, compara-
ble to the Lesotho Highlands Water Project
in terms of water volume and tunnel lengths
and diameters.
Background to the studyIn 2010, the DWA conducted a water reconcilia-
tion strategy study for the KwaZulu-Natal coast-
al metropolitan areas, which found that the
total yield of the system was 334 million cubic
metres per year at an annual assurance of sup-
ply of 99% (measured at Inanda Dam).
The Mgeni System comprises the Midmar,
Albert Falls, Nagle and Inanda dams, as well
as a water transfer scheme from the Mooi
River. The current construction of Spring
Grove Dam (Phase 2 of the Mooi Mgeni
Transfer Scheme) on the Mooi River, and a
new water transfer scheme to take water
from Spring Grove Dam to the Mpofana River,
will augment the system by 60 million cubic
metres per year, bringing the total system
yield to 394 million cubic metres per year.
Unfortunately, this addition to the system
will only meet water requirements until about
2017, when additional augmentation will be
needed to meet the downstream region’s long-
term water requirements.
The aim of this study, therefore, is to explore
the preferred options for supplying water to
UMKHOMAZI WATER PROJECT
FIGURE 1 Location of the uMWP in the Umgeni and uMkhomazi River catchments
0861 00 ZEST (9378) | www.zest.co.za
Cora
lynne
&Ass
oci
ate
s+27
(011
)422
1949
To find out more scan the code
or visit: zest.co.za/sustainability
BLUE IS THE NEW GREEN
IMIESA October 2012 27
WATER AND WASTEWATER
FIGURE 2 Location of the uMWP in the Umgeni and uMkhomazi River catchments
FIGURE 3 Location of the recently constructed Western Aqueduct linking Umgeni Water’s infrastructure with infrastructure of the eThekwini Municipality
meet the long-term requirements of water
users in the Mgeni System, specifically in the
eThekwini Municipality’s area of jurisdiction.
Pre-feasibility investigations undertaken by
the DWA indicated that Phase 1 of the uMWP,
which involves the transfer of water from the
largely undeveloped uMkhomazi River to the
integrated Mooi-Mgeni System, should be
the most favourable scheme for providing
additional augmentation. However, the details
of this option and its possible date of imple-
mentation still needs to be evaluated with con-
sideration of other alternatives such as the
reuse of treated effluent and desalinisation,
which can be implemented at an earlier stage
to provide some relief for the shortfalls likely
to occur from 2017 to 2023. While the reuse
of water is being considered as an option for
augmenting supply, it is not the focus of this
article and will not be discussed under the
water demand projections that are presented.
Phase 1 of the uMkhomazi Water ProjectPrevious studies identified eight alternative
schemes as possible alternatives, but the com-
bined Impendle and Smithfield scheme con-
figurations emerged as preferred alternatives
that were suitable for further investigation.
The pre-feasibility investigation, concluded
in 1998, recommended that the Smithfield
scheme be taken to a detailed feasibility-level
investigation because its transfer conveyances
would be independent of the existing Mgeni
System, thereby reducing the risk of limited
or non-supply to the eThekwini Municipality,
and providing a back-up to the Mgeni System.
The pre-feasibility investigation concluded
that the first phase of the uMWP would
comprise the new Smithfield Dam on the
uMkhomazi River near Richmond, water trans-
fer infrastructure (possibly a tunnel) to a
balancing dam, proposed to be the existing
Baynesfield Dam (which would have to be
raised) or another dam in the area, a water
treatment works in the uMlaza River valley
and a pipeline to a distribution reservoir at
Umlaas Road. From Umlaas Road, water
would be distributed under gravity to the
IMIESA October 2012 29
WATER AND WASTEWATER
FIGURE 4 Likely area to be supplied from the uMkhomazi Water Project: Phase 1
eThekwini Municipality and low-lying areas of
Pietermaritzburg. The implementation period
(design, procurement and construction) for
this project is estimated to take approxi-
mately six years.
Current feasibility studiesThe objective of the current feasibility study is
to finalise the planning of the proposed uMWP
at a detailed level so that the scheme may
be accurately compared with other possible
alternatives and be ready for implementation
(detailed design and construction) on comple-
tion of the study.
To expedite the study’s progress, the feasi-
bility study has been divided into the following
modules, which will run concurrently:
• Module 1: Technical feasibility: Raw
water (The DWA appointed BKS in
December 2011).
• Module 2: Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) (The DWA will commis-
sion a full EIA under a separate study).
• Module 3: Technical feasibility: Potable
water (Umgeni Water is under taking
this module).
Figure 2 shows how the three study mod-
ules overlap in terms of the infrastruc-
tures and development options that are
being addressed.
Technical feasibility study: Raw water (Module 1)In December 2011, the DWA appointed BKS
to undertake the uMkhomazi Water Project
Phase 1, Module 1: Technical feasibility study
raw water. Some specific objectives for this
study are to:
• investigate Smithfield Dam (Phase 1) to a
detailed feasibility level
• investigate the availability of water from
Impendle Dam (Phase 2) as a future
resource to release to Smithfield Dam, and
refine the phasing of the selected schemes
• optimise the conveyance system between
Smithfield Dam and the proposed
Baynesfield Water Treatment Plant
• undertake a water resources assessment of
the uMkhomazi River Catchment, including
water availability to the lower uMkhomazi
• evaluate the use of Baynesfield dam as a
balancing dam
• investigate the social and economic impact
of the uMWP.
The raw water module (Module 1) is consid-
ering water resources aspects, engineering
investigations and project planning, schedul-
ing and implementation tasks, as well as the
environmental and socio-economic impacts of
the proposed project.
At the same time, Umgeni Water is under-
taking a study for the potable water compo-
nent (Module 3), ranging from the water treat-
ment plant to the tie-in point with eThekwini
Municipality’s distribution system.
Projections for meeting long-term water requirementsPhase 1 of the uMWP will supply water from
the proposed Smithfield Dam via the recent-
ly constructed Western Aqueduct (shown in
Figure 3) to parts of the integrated Mooi-Mgeni
System as well as the eThekwini Municipality
downstream of the Umlaas Road Reservoir.
The area likely to be supplied is shown in
Figure 4.
Previous water requirements projections
(based on Average Annual Daily Demand
(AADD) and indicated by the red line on Figure
5) was revised, at eThekwini Municipality’s
request, to assume a growth rate of 1.3%,
based on proposed new developments and
projected positive economic growth in the
area, as well as plans to include supply
to areas such as Cornubia, Umhlanga and
Waterloo from the system.
The resulting projection (indicated by the
green line on Figure 5) is based on a list of
requirements and not on the capacity of the
Western Aqueduct.
A water requirement projection assuming
the Summer Daily Demand (SDD) was also
developed and is shown as a pink line
in Figure 5. For this, an SDD peak factor
of 1.5 was assumed in consultation with
eThekwini Municipality.
The projections in Figure 5 show that Phase 1
of the uMWP can meet water requirements via
the Western Aqueduct up to 2036. However,
while Umgeni Water has indicated that the full
allocation from Smithfield Dam will be used
from the date of first water delivery for supply
via the Western Aqueduct, with a combination
of water supplies from the proposed scheme
with the Mooi-Mgeni into an integrated system,
Desig
n and Supply of...
...Turnkey Water Treatment Solutio
ns
Tel: +27 (0) 11 752 1191Fax: +27 (0) 11 752 [email protected]
“Clean water for future generations”by: Partnering with nature Creating an awareness Sustaining a legacy
Own Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
Bio-
and indust technologies
Focused Business Areas
refurbish
Accredited laboratory services
Training
IMIESA October 2012 31
WATER AND WASTEWATER
FIGURE 5 Water requirement projections for the proposed uMkhomazi Water Project: Phase 1
FIGURE 6 Long-term water requirement projection for the integrated Mooi-Mgeni System
Contract value: R31 325 000Study period: Dec 2011 to Nov 2014Client: Department of Water AffairsTeam: BKS (lead consultant), AGES, MMA
the water requirements of the entire system
could be met up to about 2040 (even without
the implementation of other augmentation
options such as the reuse of water). This issue
is illustrated by the water balance for the total
integrated Mooi-Mgeni System (including Phase
1 of the uMWP and water requirement projec-
tion for the Western Aqueduct) in Figure 6.
Module 1 (Technical feasibility study: Raw
water) of the feasibility study will include a
detailed planning analysis of the integrated
system, aimed at balancing water resources
with long-term projected water requirements,
as part of the Water Resource Planning Model
(WRPM) task.
Stakeholder involvement and participationBecause the project aims to augment water
supply to the Mgeni system, an area that
is managed by Umgeni Water with users
mainly from eThekwini Municipality, this study
requires participation from the three spheres
of government, as well as from key stakehold-
ers in the water sector. An extensive public
participation process will be followed as part
of the EIA (Module 2).
Phase 2 of the uMWPAt this stage, indications are that Phase 2 of
the uMWP would be implemented when need-
ed, and would comprise the construction of a
large dam at Impendle further upstream on
the uMkhomazi River to release water to the
downstream Smithfield Dam. The proposed
Impendle Dam will probably be implemented in
two phases to the maximum size of 1.5 MAR,
with a gross storage capacity of 830 million
cubic metres. Together, these developments
have been identified as having a 99% assured
stochastic yield of about 388 million cubic
metres per year.
By developing the uMkhomazi River and
using its supplies to augment current sys-
tems, the DWA’s long-term vision for reliable,
efficient and sustainable water supplies for
the hub of KwaZulu-Natal is being realised. In
a water-scarce country such as South Africa,
the DWA is taking careful steps to optimise
the current water resources to ensure sus-
tainable supplies to support the country’s
developing economy.
WATER AND WASTEWATER
32 IMIESA October 2012
Our range of services include:
• Pipe Bursting
• Horizontal Directional Drilling
• Pipe Rehabilitation
• Slip Lining
• Pipe R ming
• CCTV Inspection
• Dewatering
• Industrial Pipe Cleaning
• HDPE Welding
• Deep Excavation and Shoring
• Underground Service Detection
• Close-fi t lining: COMPACT PIPE
For more information you can contact us: +27 (0)21 761 3474 F +27 (0)21 797 1151 E [email protected] www.tt-innovations.co.za
Trenchless Technology Specialists
According to the National Water Act, a landowner does not own the water under his land. The use of groundwater from private land for municipal domestic supply is therefore possible and promoted. By Helen Seyler, Andiswa Mlisa and Kornelius Riemann from Umvoto Africa
… and municipal groundwater supply
PRIVATE LAND
HOWEVER, the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) requires
landowner agreements before considering any licence appli-
cation or funding for groundwater development projects.
According to the National Water Act (NWA), the DWA has the
right to access private land for monitoring purposes, but this right is
not extended to municipalities as Water Services Authorities (WSAs).
The municipalities are bound by the Water Services Act, under which
they are allowed to lay services on properties but cannot necessarily
gain entry for groundwater exploration or drilling prior to laying of the
service. In addition, in terms of the Municipal Ordinance, the only com-
pensation required for the laying of a service is calculated based on the
value of land under the servitude area. The typical problems encoun-
tered in groundwater development projects for municipal supply are:
WATER AND WASTEWATER
IMIESA October 2012 33
• The worth of time to be spent in
negotiations with landowners to
access the land for exploration
is unknown, as the exploration
has not yet given results.
• Commencing exploration on the
basis of verbal consent is cost
effective in terms of negotiation
time but the lack of written con-
sent enables the landowners to
refuse access to the established
boreholes, which inhibits the monitoring process.
• Landowners often make requests for compensation in the form of
private assets that the municipality cannot legally fund.
• No standard exists for calculating compensation for inconvenience
caused during drilling or laying of services.
• Landowners attempt to use the laying of service process to secure
rights to water on land that is currently not utilised, or to object to the
municipal abstraction, which can only be done under the DWA water
use licensing process.
Hence, although the NWA, the WSA and the municipal by-laws and
ordinance support the municipal procedures and allow for servitude for
water works with agreed compensation, a key challenge for the munici-
palities, the landowners and the DWA is to run the various processes
in conjunction while maintaining that requests and concerns are dealt
with under the correct process, i.e. establishing servitude for water
works and licensing of abstraction are two separate processes. The
lessons learned and the hurdles jumped in overcoming these problems
are discussed. All parties involved should try to avoid the last resort,
expropriation of the land so that the municipality can ensure the provi-
sion of water to all.
Groundwater has historically been given limited attention and has not
been perceived as an important water resource in South Africa. This
is reflected in general statistics showing that only 13% of the nation’s
total water supply originates from groundwater. Public perception that
groundwater is not a sustainable resource for bulk domestic supply and
cannot be managed properly lingers. Despite this, a growing number
of municipalities utilise groundwater on a regular basis, and provide
examples of successful management of this resource.
A number of guidelines for groundwater management have been
developed internationally and for the South African context, these
include the NORAD toolkit (DWAF, 2004), the WRC Guidelines for
the monitoring and management of groundwater resources in rural
water supply schemes (Meyer, 2002) and the DWA Guideline for the
assessment, planning and management of groundwater resources
in South Africa (DWAF, 2008). Other documents include water qual-
ity management protocols, minimum standards, the Framework for
a National Groundwater Strategy (DWAF, 2007), the National Water
Resources Strategy (DWAF 2004), the Guidelines for catchment
management strategies towards equity, sustainability and efficiency
(DWAF, 2007) and regional groundwater plans, as well as selected
national and international ar ticles and publications on groundwater
management aspects.
However, neither of these guidelines provides the local authorities
with tools on how to deal with access to private land. This hinders
groundwater development in the country, and as a result, several WSAs
have opted to only develop groundwater on municipal property, or this
is seen to be the first option. This means that even when desktop
studies have shown that the best groundwater yield will be on private
land, the WSAs opt for exploration
on municipal land first and only
when it is proven that the yield will
not be sufficient they commence
with the process to access the
private land for drilling and eventu-
ally abstraction, which means the
projects get delayed and become
more expensive than they need to
be. This also adds to the percep-
tion that groundwater cannot be
used effectively for municipal supply.
Recent groundwater development projects in the Eastern and Western
Cape have shown that the process of getting landowner agreements
and registering servitudes is problematic for municipalities and can
result in municipalities only drilling on municipal land. The projects
include:
• Drilling of exploration boreholes commenced in the Oudtshoorn
Municipality without having landowner agreements and servitudes
in place. Subsequently, one of the landowners denied access to the
borehole for monitoring and used the artesian borehole for irrigation.
• An artesian monitoring borehole, drilled during a WRC project for
the City of Cape Town on communal land, managed by Cape Nature,
has been opened to be used for an ablution facility on the nearby
picnic spot.
• Lengthy and finally unsuccessful negotiations with different landown-
ers close to Stanford in the Overstrand Municipality have resulted in
WATER AND WASTEWATER
34 IMIESA October 2012
the need to drill the proposed production close to the existing road
outside of the farm fence under condition that a percentage of the
abstracted water is supplied to the landowner.
• Most municipalities in the Eastern Cape focused the drilling of
emergency boreholes during the recent drought on municipal land,
with the expected result of low yields and boreholes declared dry
and unsuccessful.
Legal framework for access to water and water deliveryA number of laws, from the South African Constitution to municipal
by-laws, govern the access to water in South Africa.
The South African Constitution supports access to water for all and
gives rights to the relevant authorities to ensure delivery of water.
Section 27 states: “... Everyone has the right to have access to suf-
ficient food and water… the state must take reasonable legislative
and other measures, within its available resources, to achieve the
progressive realisation of… these rights”.
The South African Constitution allocates the management of water
resources to national government and the management of water and
sanitation services for all citizens to municipalities (local government).
Hence there is one Act that deals with the sources of water (National
Water Act, national responsibility) and one Act that deals with water
services (Water Services Act, local responsibility). The public water
and sanitation sector in South Africa is organised in three different
tiers, namely:
• The national government, represented by the DWA, and
establishes policy.
• Water boards, which primarily provide bulk water, in addition to play-
ing a role in water resources management. They also provide some
retail services and operate some wastewater treatment plants.
• Municipalities, which provide most retail services and also own
some of the bulk water infrastructure. The municipalities do this
through the WSA and Water Service Provider (WSP) departments.
South Africa’s Water Services Act (Act 108 of 1997) contains a sec-
tion on the right of access to basic water and sanitation. It states that:
• everyone has a right of access to basic water supply and basic
sanitation
• every water services institution must take reasonable measures to
realise these rights
• every water services authority must, in its water services develop-
ment plan, provide for measures to realise these rights.
Under the Water Services Act, the municipalities are allowed to lay ser-
vices on properties but cannot necessarily gain entry for groundwater
exploration or drilling prior to laying of the service. The National Water
CONGRATULATIONS to our customers who achieved this year’s coveted Blue Drop Status. If you live in
CHEERS!
36 IMIESA October 2012
WATER AND WASTEWATER
TABLE 1 Phases of groundwater development and landowner agreements (after Riemann et al., 2011)
LEVEL OF STUDY PRODUCT/DECISION DATA COLLECTION LANDOWNER AGREEMENT REQUIREMENT
Conceptualisation • Inception/planning report • Expert evaluation of existing data • Not required
Reconnaissance
• Identify target areas• Recommendation for
and prioritisation of monitoring
• Primarily desktop work with limited fieldwork and data collection, as required, (e.g. Hydrocensus)
• 1st order water balance model
• Access to private land for fieldwork
Pre-feasibility
• Environmental monitoring and assessment
• Identify target sites
• Geological and ecological mapping• Installation of monitoring
infrastructure and ongoing monitoring of relevant processes
• Recalibrate water balance model
• Access required for establishing monitoring infrastructure and ongoing monitoring.
• No law in support of this
Feasibility
• Exploration • Yield estimation• Licence and EIA
application• Feasibility report
• Site survey, borehole siting• Drilling and testing of exploration
boreholes• Regional groundwater modeling• Invest in collecting all relevant input
for design purposes
• Access required for borehole siting, exploration drilling and continuous monitoring.
• NEMA no longer requires EIA for drilling of exploration boreholes
• For licensing purposes DWA requires the WSA to have landowner agreements in place
• Exploration and monitoring boreholes not seen as services by the Water Services Act
• DWA is supported by the NWA to establish exploration/monitoring boreholes but not the WSA
Options analysis • Options analysis report• Comparison of different options for
water supply, based on feasibility studies
• No access required
Design and implementation
• Wellfield design and implementation
• Operating rules
• Design all components of the scheme
• Wellfield model
• Access and servitude required for drilling of production boreholes and laying of services e.g. pipeline
• The Constitution and NWA provide guidance on compensation
• The Water Services Act grants the WSP the legal right to lay services
Operation and maintenance
• Operation and maintenance
• Ongoing monitoring • Access to undertake continuous monitoring required
Act (Act 36 of 1998) provides a framework to protect water resources
against over-exploitation and to ensure that there is water for social and
economic development and water for the future. It also recognises that
water belongs to the whole nation for the benefit of all people. The Act
outlines the permissible use of water. It says people can:
• take water for reasonable domestic use in their household, directly
from any water resource to which they have lawful access
• take water for use on land owned or occupied by that person for
reasonable domestic use, small gardening (not for commercial pur-
poses) and the watering of animals (excluding feedlots) that graze
on that land (within the grazing capacity of that land) from any water
resource that is situated on or forms a boundary of that land, if the
use is not excessive in relation to the capacity of the water resource
and the needs of other users
• store and use run-off water from a roof
• in emergency situations, take water from any water resource for
human consumption or fire fighting.
According to the NWA, a landowner does not own the water under that
land. Municipal abstraction from private land is therefore possible and
promoted. However, the DWA requires landowner agreements before
considering any licence application or funding for groundwater develop-
ment projects. According to the NWA, the DWA has the right to access
private land for drilling exploration boreholes for monitoring purposes,
but this right is not extended to municipalities as WSAs.
The municipal by-laws and ordinance give municipalities a certain
amount of legal leeway for accessing private land; however, enforce-
ment of these laws and their legal value is not clear. In terms of
the Municipal Ordinance, the only compensation required for the
laying of a service is calculated based on the value of land under the
servitude area.
When drilling of exploration boreholes and abstraction of groundwa-
ter was considered a listed activity under the National Environmental
Management Act (NEMA) (Act 107 of 1998), requiring a Record of
Decision and an EIA, landowner consent was a requirement if the
activity would not occur on the applicant’s land, e.g. on private land
for a municipality as applicant. This caused confusion with landown-
ers as they thought this may mean they cannot object to the activity,
which in turn caused delays with the EIA process as basic assess-
ment reports could not be finalised and submitted, or site evaluation
could not be carried out until the consent forms had been signed. The
change of the NEMA regulation for EIA requirements with respect to
groundwater development is welcome, as it would help to align the
different processes.
Groundwater development and landowner agreement processThe development of groundwater schemes and implementation of well-
fields should follow a standard project process, which is similar to other
infrastructure development (Riemann et al, 2011). The main elements
of this process are shown in Table 1.
It is clear from the above process that only the landowner agreements
of the design level are supported by the current laws, although even
those are not sufficient as they do not give the WSAs the full rights
required for successful and effective implementation. Unlike the DWA,
which can just inform the landowner through a standard letter when
they need to undertake exploration and/or monitoring on private land,
IMIESA October 2012 37
WATER AND WASTEWATER
the WSAs have to go through a negotiation and compensation process,
which is time consuming and expensive, and sometimes leads to expro-
priation as at times the landowners are not reasonable and agreeable.
As outlined in Table 1, groundwater development is a phased
approach. Hence, access agreement, servitudes and compensation
agreements are required at different times and levels of the groundwa-
ter development project:
• access for exploration fieldwork from reconnaissance level onwards
• access for installation of monitoring network from pre-feasibility
level onwards
• access for drilling of exploration and/or production boreholes at
feasibility and design level
• servitude for monitoring from pre-feasibility level onwards
• servitude for services, e.g. borehole, pipeline, pump house from
design level onwards
• compensation for servitude and use of water from operation
level onwards.
It is also not clear who is responsible to engage and negotiate with the
landowners for these different agreements. In some cases:
• the consulting hydrogeologist undertakes the process
• the WSA undertakes these with or without the legal assistance of
the municipality
• external lawyers are appointed to undertake the process.
Unfortunately, the whole process of landowner agreements and com-
pensation for access of land for groundwater development is not regu-
lated. As there is no guideline available, the municipality must become
a negotiator involving bargaining, handshake agreements, pleas and
memorandum of agreements. In most cases, the landowners request
far more as compensation than what is reasonable. One of the land-
owners in Stanford requested fencing off of the proposed servitude.
Access agreement Access agreements can have many forms and details. For once-off
access at an early stage of a project, a handshake agreement or
verbal permission is normally sufficient, while the installation of
equipment or drilling should only commence once a written agreement
is in place. There is no guideline or template for these agreements,
TH
RU
SH
IN
DU
ST
RIA
L -
DF
C D
/05/
05/4
/2
Dynamic Fluid Control is a South African based multinational with a holistic approach to problem-solving, and a focus on precision and craftsmanship throughout the range. Quality management is approved to ISO 9001:2000.
The DFC team together possess more than 150 years experience in engineered valve solutions - experience that ensures delivery of precisely the right valve for your particular application, whatever and wherever it may be.
32 Lincoln Road Industrial Sites Benoni SouthPO Box 5064 Benoni South 1502 Republic of South AfricaTelephone +27 11 748-0200 Facsimile +27 11 421-2749E-mail [email protected]
To the thousands of engineerswho are not surewhich company to callfor the best valve solution
ATE, CHECK & BUTTERFLY VALVES • DIAPHRAGM VALVES • PNEUMATIC ACTUATORS • ANTI-SHOCK AIR VALVES • AUTOMATIC CONTROL VALVEWEDGE GATE VALVES • BUTTERFLY VALVES • SLURRY KNIFE GATE VALVES • GATE, CHECK & BUTTERFLY VALVES • DIAPHRAGM VALVES • PNEUMATICTUATORS • ANTI-SHOCK AIR VALVES • AUTOMATIC CONTROL VALVES • WEDGE GATE VALVES • BUTTERFLY VALVES • SLURRY KNIFE GATE VALVE
ONTROL VALVES • WEDGE GATE VALVES • BUTTERFLY VALVES • SLURRY KNIFE GATE VALVES • VALVES • GATE, CHECK & BUTTERFLY VALVES • DIAPHRAGM VALVE
• Automation solutions
• Extensive range of water & effl uent valves
• Most extensive knowledge base
• Leading edge quality
• Nationwide distribution
• Offi ces in Europe, USA and Australia
• Complete range of mineral processing valves
DFC-INS Call 210 x 297.indd 1 10/14/10 9:40:04 AM
WATER AND WASTEWATER
IMIESA October 2012 39
Head Of ce: Telephone (018) 293 0487 • Fax (018) 293 0489 • Web: www.lwt.co.za • e-mail: [email protected] branches: Western Cape (Parow), Eastern Cape (Port Elizabeth), Botswana (Gaborone)
In-house design, supply, installation and commissioning of:Floating aerators • Platform aerators • Horizontal aerators • Fine bubble aerators • Clari ers • Thickeners • Belt press machines • Fine screens
• Classi ers • Belt conveyors • Bio lters • Screw conveyors • Compactors • Grit removal systems • Archimedean screw pumps • Axial ow pumps
• Mixers • Chlorination systems • DAF tanks • Penstocks
WastewaterWastewaterSolutionSolution
The landowner still has free access to the land, but might be restricted in his activities
and each one must be negotiated on its
own merit. The EIA and licensing processes
require the consent of landowners, on which
land the activity will occur. The Department
of Environmental Affairs uses a consent form
for the EIA process that simply states that
the landowner gives consent to the activity
being investigated and considered. This does
not imply that the landowner agrees with the
activity taking place and does not foreclose
any comments or concerns by the landowner.
A special form of agreement is the servi-
tude that is registered in the title deeds. A
registered servitude gives the municipality
the right to access land for reasons stipu-
lated in the servitude. The landowner still
has free access to the land, but might be
restricted in his activities, so that the servi-
tude can be effective. Since the servitude is
registered in the title deeds, it remains valid
when selling the property.
CompensationThe question of compensation is addressed in the South African
Constitution, Section 25, 2): “… Property may be expropriated only
in terms of law of general application… for
a public purpose or in the public interest;
and subject to compensation, the amount of
which and the time and manner of payment
of which have either been agreed to by
those affected or decided or approved by a
court.” It further states that “the amount of
the compensation and the time and manner
of payment must be just and equitable,
reflecting an equitable balance between
the public interest and the interests of
those affected, having regard to all relevant
circumstances, including:
• the current use of the property
• the history of the acquisition and use of
the property
• the market value of the property
• the extent of direct state investment and
subsidy in the acquisition and beneficial
capital improvement of the property
• the purpose of the expropriation.
The Constitution further states that for the
purposes of Section 25 “… the public interest includes the nation’s
commitment… to bring about equitable access to all of South Africa’s
natural resources... ” The NWA also stipulates conditions for servitudes
WATER AND WASTEWATER
IMIESA October 2012 41
Specialists In: Pressed Sectional Steel Tanks • Structural Steel • Supporting Towers • Water Storage • G.R.P Tanks
Abeco House, 6A Bradford RdBedfordview, South Africa
Tel: +27 11 616 7999 | Fax: +27 11 616 8355E-mail: [email protected]
Th e N a me t h a t Th e N a me t h a t Re a l l y H o l d s Wa t e rRe a l l y H o l d s Wa t e r
ABECO
TANKS
Est. 1983Manufactured in South Africa
www. a b ec otank s . c o . z a
Potential land use and hence loss of ‘economical productivity’ of that land to the landowner is often not considered
and associated compensations,
effectively stating that compensa-
tion should be based on the value
of the effected land.
In Table 1 it is suggested that
compensation is agreed upon
effectively during the design and
implementation level of a ground-
water development project, since
the success of the groundwater
exploration like borehole yield can
only be established at this stage.
However, there might be a case
for compensation for inconven-
ience during earlier phases of the
project, meaning compensation for
day to day disturbance of the land-
owner by the project activities such
as drilling, which mainly occur dur-
ing feasibility and design levels of
a project. Following the recommen-
dation of the Constitution and the
NWA on compensation, the minimum requirement is deemed to be the
value of land to be used (area), which is a straightforward land evalua-
tion by a municipal land evaluator. The current or potential land use and
hence loss of ‘economical productivity’ of that land to the landowner is
often not considered.
Possible way forwardThough the Constitution and the NWA allow for expropriation, this is
found to be an extreme path by all parties involved, and hence servi-
tude registration in the title deeds of the property has been found to
be the most effective option for a final agreement for access to land.
The following process is considered appropriate for groundwater devel-
opment projects:
• Signing of an “in principle” Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) prior to
commencement of exploration drilling, i.e. at feasibility level – reaching
an “in principle” agreement
with the landowners over
whose property access for
drilling is required.
• If possible, the MOA
should cover all activities
required to be undertaken
on the land, including the
design level.
• The agreement should
consider the duration of
the intended servitude,
i.e. will it be for a fixed
period of time or will it
subsist indefinitely or be
based on activity.
• The MOA should indicate
that a subsequent servi-
tude registration might
occur depending upon the
results of the feasibility and
design levels of the study.
• Compensation for the servitude will be negotiated once the results of
the design level are available, meaning once it is known whether the
boreholes will be used for abstraction of water.
• Servitude to be registered by way of an endorsement/restriction on
the title deed for the property concerned so that it gives rise to what
is known as a real right, i.e. it is enforceable against the world at
large. This would protect the municipality in a situation where the
owner of the land concerned sold the property, as the new owner
would be bound by the servitude as reflected on the title deed of
the property.
Following the above two-step process ensures that the negotiations for
compensation are carried out once the WSA knows the value of the
water found on the land and hence can evaluate a reasonable compen-
sation for the access and use of water. The request by many landown-
ers for use of water as compensation is premature before production
WATER AND WASTEWATER
44 IMIESA October 2012
The negotiation and agreement with respect to the compensation is a lengthy process, if proper guidelines are not followed
boreholes have been drilled and tested
as the amount of compensation cannot
be agreed upon until the yield of the
boreholes has been established.
Commencing exploration on the basis
of verbal consent is cost-effective in
terms of negotiation time, but the
lack of written consent enables the
landowners to refuse access to the
established boreholes, which inhibits
the monitoring process, e.g. two years’
worth of monitoring data was lost in
a project, while access was being
renegotiated. Hence, the “in principle”
MOA is a strongly suggested step prior
to drilling.
The negotiation and agreement with
respect to the compensation is a lengthy
process, if proper guidelines are not fol-
lowed. The minimum requirement of the
land value is often not accepted by the landowners, while their requests
for special items and assets to be included, e.g. fence, private borehole
and free water supply, cannot be entertained by the municipality.
However, it has been a very successful approach to “buy” the water
from the landowner for a value similar to the potential profit, if the
landowner would use the water on their
property for economic benefit.
In estimating reasonable compensa-
tion, the WSAs have to consider the
following additional costs related to
servitude registration:
• surveying of the section of the
property to be registered for servi-
tude, including dimensions of the
road access
• survey diagrams lodged with and
approved by the Surveyor-General
and, thereafter, the servitudes would
have to formally register against
the properties’ title deeds at the
Deeds Office
• land evaluators’ fees – prefer-
ably use municipal ones, though
mutual agreement may need to be
reached between the par ties on
who to appoint to avoid perception
of biases
• lawyers’ costs for all par ties involved, including the lawyers for the
landowners. In this case the WSAs are advised to set a maximum
charge per hour and expected time to be spent by the lawyer.
WATER AND WASTEWATER
IMIESA October 2012 45
Member of the Dawn Group Think Green
Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 345 5600 Cape Town Tel: +27 11 957 5600 www.dpiplastics.co.za [email protected]@[email protected]
[email protected]@dpiplastics.co.za
[email protected]@dpiplastics.co.za
[email protected]@dpiplastics.co.za
[email protected]@dpiplastics.co.za
Leading manufacturer of quality piping systems for water reticulation and conveyance
ggng mpit
ggLeadingquality pwater retconveyan
f
za [email protected]@dpiplastics.c
co
Building a GREENER tomorrow today...
ABOUT THE AUTHORS (from far Left)Andiswa Mlisa is a director at Umvoto AfricaDr Kornelius Riemann is the principal hydrogeologist at Umvoto Africa Helen Seyler is a senior hydrogeologist at Umvoto Africa
Recommendations and conclusions Although the Constitution, NWA, the WSA and the municipal by-laws and
ordinance support the municipal procedures and allow for servitude for
water works with agreed compensation, a key challenge for the munici-
palities, the landowners and the DWA is to run the various legal process-
es in parallel while maintaining that requests and concerns are dealt with
under the correct process. Although the NWA Section 24 requires the
consent of landowners for the use of water found underground on that
land, it is suggested that the DWA considers water use licence applica-
tions (WULA) without the requirement for landowner agreements in place.
Their concerns can be dealt with in the comments and responses
register of the public par ticipation during the licensing process, and
the water could be allocated to the municipality without the consent.
The passing of a licence then allows the municipality to establish the
water works and lay the pipeline. It is further suggested that right for
the establishment of exploration boreholes and the access to land for
monitoring purposes be extended to include the WSAs and WSPs.
References: Government of South Africa, 1998. South African National Water
Act, Act No. 36 of 1998. Government Gazette Volume 398.
Government of South Africa, 1997. South African Water Services Act. Act No.
108 of 1997. Government Gazette Volume 390.
Riemann, K, D. Louw, N. Chimboza & M. Fubesi (2011). Groundwater
Management Framework. WRC Report No. 1917/1/11. Water Research
Commission South Africa, Pretoria
Acknowledgements: This paper draws on lessons from two Umvoto projects
in which the support of the Overstrand Municipality and the Outdshoorn
Municipality is acknowledged.
Domestic and Commercial
Often copied - never equalled
Elster Kent / Telbit Pre-Paid Metering Systems
6802/11/2011
The company's policy is one of continuousimprovement and the right is reserved tomodify the specifications without notice
JOHANNESBURGTel: (011) 470-4900Fax: (011) 474-0175
DURBANTel: (031) 266-4915Fax: (031) 266-9521
CAPE TOWNTel: (021) 511-8465/6Fax: (021) 511-8446
BLOEMFONTEINTel: (051) 430-2603Fax: (051) 430-6165
PORT ELIZABETHCell: 082 458-3439
Elster Kent Metering’s vast experience both locally andabroad make us the perfect partner for your pre-paidmetering programme.
Our range of FOUR prepaid metering options cover yourneeds from standpipe to individual unit metering.
Our pre-paid meters have:• excellent low-flow metering capabilities• secure software• lowest service-life cost• robust components• capacity to feed three bathrooms• different options for flats• reliability you can trust• superb after-sales service• SANS 1529-9:2008 approval• the name you can trust
For the best pre-paid metering advice and trusted, cost-effective metering solutions call:
Copyright © Elster Group. All Rights Reserved. Elster and its logo, are trademarks of Elster Group.
Elster Kent Meteringyour trusted partnerin Pre-Paid Metering
IMIESA October 2012 47
SAPPMA CONFERENCE
The Southern African Plastic Pipe Manufacturers Association recently held its annual conference and exhibition. IMIESA examines one of the papers delivered at the event. It was presented by Peter Kleynhans, president-elect of the South African Institution of Civil Engineering.
The humble pipe and the triple challenge
A HOLISTIC VIEW
SOUTH AFRICA IS FACED with many developmental and sus-
tainability challenges. The South African government has iden-
tified three socio-economic imperatives as requiring particular
attention. They are:
• poverty alleviation
• removal of inequality
• reduction in unemployment.
As practitioners, we tend to focus on the aspects with which we are
charged and give limited thought to the sole purpose of a pipe, namely
to convey a fluid intended for some form of service delivery. Also, many
buried pipes are subject to a human shortcoming, often referred to as
‘out of sight out of mind’. This paper serves to illustrate some of the
contributions that the ‘humble pipe’ makes to address the triple chal-
lenge, and what those of us who are actively engaged in the life cycle of
pipes should do to enable the ‘humble pipe’ to come to its ‘full glory’.
The three socio-economic imperatives are intertwined and much of
The panel of speakers answering the audience’s questions at the end of the SAPPMA conference
IMIESA October 2012 49
what is done in respect of one can have a ben-
eficial result for another.
A sound, well-balanced socio-economic
regime is the foundation of efforts to address
the triple challenge. Virtually all economic activ-
ity and social services require the efficient and
effective conveyance of fluids. Hence, without
the ‘humble pipe’, a developmental socio-
economic order would not be possible. While
it is not always obvious, the ‘humble pipe’ is
integral to addressing the triple challenge.
The pipe as an asset and as a liability For convenience, the comments in this paper
are structured to reflect the life cycle of a pipe.
The implication of a life cycle approach is that
a pipe is not only an asset, but also a lifelong
liability.
In order for a pipe to attain its true asset
potential, it needs to be fit for purpose with
the liability in respect of matters such as cost,
resource requirements, loss of the fluid con-
veyed, refurbishment and replacement being
as low as reasonably possible. Only then can
the ‘humble pipe’ come to its ‘full glory’. In
essence, for the ‘humble pipe’ to contribute
in full to the package of measures required
to address the triple challenge, the benefits
of the pipe need to be maximised, while the
liabilities associated with the pipe need to be
minimised. The fitness for purpose of a pipe
installation, its quality and the manner in which
it is managed throughout its life cycle are the
dominant contributors to the value of the asset
and the extent to which the pipe installation
contributes to addressing the triple challenge.
Inappropriateness, poor quality and inadequate
management have an adverse effect on ser-
vice delivery by increasing the liability of the
pipe, while reducing its value as an asset. This
adverse effect works against endeavours to
address the triple challenge. Every rand spent
unnecessarily due to a shortcoming in a pipe
installation, reduces funds available to address
the triple challenge.
Materials and manufacture Many materials are used in the manufacture
of pipes. Each material and manufacturing
process tends to have individual resource
(including employment) and energy require-
ments. These requirements can be expected
to become increasingly important selection
criteria.
The abstraction and processing of raw
materials contribute to addressing the triple
challenge. The manner in which and extent to
which there is a contribution, varies among
pipe materials.
Extractors and processors of raw material
together with manufacturers of pipes seek to
obtain a sound balance between factors, such
as energy needs, quality of product and the
employment of labour, while remaining locally
as well as internationally competitive.
International competitiveness is critical as
the importation of less expensive pipes is not
conducive to addressing the triple challenge.
On the other hand, the ability to export pipes
contributes to addressing the triple challenge.
The quality of pipes (and the associated
fittings) plays a
significant part
in a pipe being
an asset and in
reducing the lia-
bility associated
with that asset.
Consequently,
standards for
materials and the manufacture of pipes as well
as compliance with those standards (for locally
manufactured as well as imported pipes and
fittings) are central to the contribution that the
‘humble pipe’ can make towards addressing
the triple challenge.
Continual technological improvement of mate-
rials, pipes, fittings and coupling arrangements
(that result in a more robust pipe installation
with reduced risk of failure, reduction in the
loss of fluid and increased longevity) goes
a long way towards increasing the value of
the asset and in reducing the lifelong liabil-
ity. These technological improvements are an
important contributor to addressing the triple
challenge.
Planning, design and documentation Planning and design are the foundations of
the life cycle of any asset, including the ability
of the ‘humble pipe’ to contribute to the triple
challenge.
An important component of planning is to
reduce the need for an asset, such as pipes
(thereby reducing the lifelong liability), while still
retaining appropriate service delivery. Much of
this planning might vest with political decision-
makers and others who are not involved with
pipes. In those instances, the planners of
pipe installations might have little input into
determining the service delivery mechanisms.
In other instances, the planners of pipe instal-
lations would
have a central
role in deter-
mining appro-
priate ways
of addressing
service delivery
requirements.
Whichever way,
planners should seek ways of reducing the
necessity for new assets.
Once the most beneficial pipe installation is
identified, it becomes incumbent on designers
to apply their minds with ‘due skill, care and
diligence’ to select the most appropriate pipe
materials, pipe sizes and pipe configurations.
Collectively, these considerations determine,
or at least strongly influence, the appropriate-
ness of the resulting asset for the desired
service delivery requirements, together with
the lifelong liability associated with the asset.
Inappropriateness of one or more of pipe mate-
rials, pipe sizes and pipe configuration could
result in the service delivery requirements not
being met, energy being used unnecessarily,
Every rand spent unnecessarily due to a shortcoming in a pipe installation, reduces funds available to address the triple challenge
Lizl du Preez of Pipeflo was the lucky draw winner of the Canon camera
SAPPMA CONFERENCE
IMIESA October 2012 51
and excessive maintenance and in extreme
cases, premature failure coupled with the need
to replace the asset. While these aspects
are undesirable in their own rights, they have
knock-on effects by deviating scarce financial
and human resources from other matters that
seek to address the triple challenge.
An important consideration in the design
of pipe installations is the ability to identify
leaks that might occur during the operating life
of the installation. While the loss of fluid is
undesirable from resources and ecological per-
spectives, it also reduces finances that might
otherwise be available to contribute towards
addressing the triple challenge.
When detail designs are prepared, designers
need to make maintenance as easy as practica-
ble. Poorly designed pipe installations from the
perspective of maintenance might contribute
to a reduction in unemployment by needing
larger maintenance teams. The employment is
not productive, however, and results in greater
costs, which detract from the ability to address
the other two socio-economic imperatives of
the triple challenge.
The identification, selection and design of
an appropriate pipe for a specific service
delivery requirement need to be accompanied
by sound bid and contract documents, without
which problematic contracts or a less than
optimal asset with significant lifelong liability
could result. ‘Due skill, care and diligence’ is
required when compiling bid and contract docu-
ments. ‘Cut and paste’ documentation, using
flawed documents as the basis, has the danger
of shortcomings being repeated.
Standards, pro
forma documents
of various forms
and pipe manufac-
turers’ handbooks
have a major part
to play in ensuring
suitable bid and contract documents, thereby
contributing towards the creation of sound
assets and limiting lifelong liabilities. In their
own right, such documents play a meaningful
role to assist in addressing the triple challenge.
A critical element of bid documentation is the
evaluation criteria that are adopted when bids
are adjudicated. In the case of public sector
pipe installations, the current Broad-Based
Black Economic Empowerment regulations
make it incumbent on the compilers of bid
documents (for professional service providers,
suppliers and contractors) to make sure the
‘functionality criteria’ are such that there is
assurance only bidders capable of designing
or constructing sound assets proceed to the
second round of evaluation. Failure to do so
would increase the risk of troublesome con-
tracts and assets with high lifelong liabilities.
Both such occurrences would detract from the
authorities’ abilities to contribute to addressing
the triple challenge.
Labour-based methods of construction for
pipelines and pipe systems are an acknowl-
edged method of contributing towards the triple
challenge, particularly for poverty alleviation
and for the reduction in unemployment. Owners
and ‘implementers’ of pipe installations should
allow for such methods of construction where
practicable, with the design and documen-
tation being appropriate. Recent experience
in such projects, including those containing
pipes, has indicated shortcomings in our pre-
sent approach; however, particularly concern-
ing assurance of value for money in asset
creation. Such shortcomings can and should
be rectified in the interests of addressing the
triple challenge.
Construction, testing and commissioning The manner in which a pipe and its fittings are
installed and the appurtenant works are con-
structed is central to the creation of a sound
asset with low lifelong liability.
In accordance with the most commonly adopt-
ed general conditions of contract, the quality of
the pipe asset is a combined responsibility of
the ‘contractor’, the ‘employer’ and the ‘engi-
neer‘. Each has specific contractual rights and
responsibilities. If any party fails to exercise
those rights or to comply with its responsibili-
ties, the quality
of the resulting
asset may be
compromised.
For example,
a contractor’s
failure to ade-
quately bed a pipe, the employer not allowing
for adequate site attendance and the engi-
neer’s site representative not inspecting the
bedding, could result in premature failure of the
pipe, additional maintenance and the unneces-
sary loss of fluid from the pipe.
Although a manufacturer of pipes is gener-
ally not a party to the construction contractual
arrangement outlined above, much benefit can
be derived when the manufacturer (through
initiatives such as training, monitoring and
technical assistance) proactively contributes
to ensuring that the pipe and its appurtenant
fittings are properly installed and protected.
Hydraulic testing of a pipe installation plays
an important part in quality assurance and in
detecting potential defects that could result in
fluid leaking from the installation or premature
failure of pipes and/or fittings. These matters
are key to the soundness of the asset and to
reducing the lifelong liability associated with
the asset. The three participants in conven-
tional contracts, as well as pipe manufactur-
ers, should participate in ensuring that a pipe
installation is tested for soundness, thereby
reducing the lifelong liability and contributing to
addressing the triple challenge.
Where inadequate attention is given to com-
missioning, a pipe installation’s fitness for pur-
pose is suspect. The result might be that less
fluid is delivered than was initially intended,
higher energy costs might be necessary or the
level of service might be lower than required.
All these aspects have a negative impact on
addressing the triple challenge by reducing the
value and/or increasing the lifelong liability of
the asset.
Management, operation and maintenance It is common knowledge that the planning
and construction of a pipe installation is of
short duration relative to the lifelong need for
management, operation and maintenance of
the asset.
A pipe installation should fulfil its purpose
for many decades and ideally well in excess of
a century. The longer a pipe is fit for purpose
the better it contributes to addressing the triple
challenge. The absence of sound pipe man-
agement, resulting in higher than necessary
Where inadequate attention is given to commissioning, a pipe installation’s fi tness for purpose is suspect
Attached is a picture of Dawie Fick, MC, handing Peter Kleynhans a bottle of wine to thank him for his presentation
SAPPMA CONFERENCE
SAPPMA CONFERENCE
52 IMIESA October 2012
maintenance costs and the possible premature
replacement of the asset detracts from an
institution’s abilities to focus on other matters
that contribute directly to addressing the triple
challenge.
Critical parts of water management are cost
recovery and reduction of non-revenue water.
Every rand that is not collected for services
rendered and every litre of
water for which costs cannot
be recovered detract from an
institution’s ability to contrib-
ute towards addressing the tri-
ple challenge. The same tends
to apply to pipe installations
conveying other fluids.
While it can be argued that poor consum-
ers benefit in respect of poverty alleviation
by not paying for water, free basic services
are intended to achieve this objective. The
water for which there is no payment is above
that required to meet basic needs and is
often in respect of water that is used (or
possibly wasted) by consumers who are not
impoverished. Non-payment for such water
actually detracts from the potential to address
poverty alleviation.
An asset that is fit for purpose and of sound
quality does not result in service delivery if it
is not appropriately operated. In addition, poor
operation could result in a reduction of the
useful life of an asset (or even its destruction),
while increasing the lifelong liability due to
breakdowns or unnecessary failures that result
in unplanned maintenance. The avoidable cost
of keeping the asset functional reduces the
funds available to contribute towards address-
ing the triple challenge.
The South African Institution of Civil
Engineering infrastructure report card clearly
shows that, in general, the public sector pipe
installations are at best satisfactory; many are
at risk, while sanitation in certain areas outside
of the major urban areas is unfit for purpose.
The cause is not necessarily divorced from the
quality of the assets that were constructed,
but is generally the result of inadequacy in
maintenance.
In essence, inadequate planned maintenance
and shoddy unplanned repairs have resulted
in unnecessary remedial work being required
in respect of pipe installations. While such
remedial work could contribute to a temporary
reduction in unemployment (often at a local
level), the expenditure would not be necessary
if the assets had been appropriately managed.
There is no addition to the infrastructure assets,
merely a replacement, thereby utilising funds
that should otherwise be available to address
poverty alleviation and the removal of inequality.
Being part of the global economy, South
Africa needs to be able to compete with the
best in the world if the triple challenge is
to be addressed. Consequently, the ‘humble
pipe’ has a role in basic services as well as in
delivering services to world-class enterprises.
Several of our cities have aspirations to be
‘world-class cities’.
Conclusion The ‘humble pipe’ is an important component
in our endeavours to address the triple chal-
lenge. The manner in which we approach and
execute our disparate roles in the life cycle
of pipe installations either contributes to the
country’s ability to address the triple chal-
lenge or detracts from our ability to address
the triple challenge. By fulfilling our obligations
as ‘pipe practitioners’ with ‘due skill, care and
diligence’, we contribute to addressing the
triple challenge.
Marley Pipe Systems was awarded a gold certificate for their stand at PIPES VI
Inadequate planned maintenance and shoddy unplanned repairs have resulted in unnecessary remedial work
PROFILE
How many manufacturers of Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) pipes are there in South Africa? JK Fiberpipe is
the sole manufacturer for the civil
industry, but there are more in the
industrial sector.
What speciality does GRP pipes provide? They are easy
to install, non-corrosive, have an
extended lifespan, have a very low
coefficiency of friction, and are
lightweight with high strength.
What makes it suited to local conditions? It is
corrosive resistant, therefore
no maintenance or cathodic
protection is required.
How has it been received locally? We have had mixed
reviews as it is still a relatively
new material and you will always
have the two camps: people who
embrace new technology and
people who do not.
Where are you experiencing growth – or are you
strategising to move into new markets? As people
become more confident with a
new material they start to use
more of it. We are also moving
into new markets such as mining.
Why is GRP a better choice? Each product has its
place in the market just as GRP
does. But with the advantages
that GRP has, it is a viable option
and very competitive on pricing.
What sets your product apart from others? We supply
a full pipe system out of GRP,
including fittings, which are tailor-
made to specification, and we
also provide on-site assistance
from our field engineering
department, which advises the
contractor with correct installation
methods throughout the project.
What is the cost comparison of your products to similar options? Depending on the
pressure and diameter, GRP pipes
can be 20% more cost-effective
than traditional materials.
You manufacture two brands, Flowtite and Vectus; what are their specific applications? Both are used to
transport water and sewage, but
Flowtite is more widely suited for
long lengths due to the continual
manufacturing process.
Why are the products suited to water applications in Southern African? They have
the right price combined with
excellent advantages, and there is
little or no maintenance required.
In relation to corrosion with certain wastewater streams, how do your two brands fare? Excellent, as no corrosive
materials are used in GRP.
How do the products fare in terms of life cycle? Excellently, as they have a design
lifespan of 50 years. From tests
performed on pipes removed from
the ground that have been in use
for 25 years the expected lifespan
forecast is up to 120 years.
What key maintenance aspects need to be taken into account? Very little or
no maintenance is required on
our pipes.
How important is the proper and specialist installation? Like all pipe systems, correct
installation is a key factor, but we
do not require a special artisan
to install our pipes with our field
engineering department on-site.
We train the contractors’ staff
The leader in piping in civil applications
FIBERPIPE
on the installation methods and
advise during installation.
What are the specific ben-efits of Vectus? The joining
method used in Vectus allows us
to test at every joint after installa-
tion to ensure no leakages.
Does the Flowtite pipe have applications in agriculture or is the use only industrial? Agriculture is one of our main
markets as our pipes are used for
the transportation of bulk water.
What is Fiberpipe’s mission and vision? To be the leading
manufacturer and preferred
supplier of GRP pipes and fittings
in civil engineering, mining,
industrial and agricultural markets
in sub-Saharan Africa and in
the Indian Ocean islands. Our
financial goals will be achieved
through intensive focus on
quality products, excellence
in customer service and
manufacturing efficiency.
How do these contribute to project success? Our main
focus is on quality and providing
excellent customer service; we
are ISO 9001:2008 certified and
manufacture to strict processes
to ensure a quality product. We
also supply our clients with after-
sales service and assistance from
our field services division.
Jan Kruger of Fiberpipe talks to IMIESA about Vectus, Flowtite and the benefit of using Fiberpipe for water and sewage applications.
www.fiberpipe.co.za
IMIESA October 2012 53
DuPont™ Elvaloy® RET BITUMEN MODIFIER.Polymer modifi ed bitumen made with Elvaloy® RET has storage stability that is unmatched in the market. It reacts chemically with the bitumen, which enables it to maintain initial binder properties even after prolonged storage and shipment. Together, we can enhance the physical performance of road infrastructure. Welcome to Th e Global CollaboratoryTM.
For a bitumen modifi er designed to fi ght all major road failure mechanisms - from rutting and fatigue cracking to cold cracking and binder stripping - contact Richard Ntombela on 082 819 0554 or [email protected]
Copyright(C) 2012 DuPont. All rights reserved. Th e DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont™ and all products denoted with ® or TM are registered trademarks or trademarks of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company or its affi liates.
To learn more, visit www.dupont.com/asphalt
IMIESA October 2012 55
SABITA
OVER THE PAST three years, the
South African bituminous prod-
ucts industry has made significant
strides in the introduction of warm
mix asphalt (WMA), a process which allows
asphalt mixes to be manufactured and paved
at temperatures at least 30°C below those
of conventional hot mix asphalt (HMA), while
maintaining or even exceeding the quality of
equivalent HMA mixes. This generates sig-
nificant savings in energy consumed in heating
aggregate and bitumen in the asphalt manufac-
turing process.
Other significant benefitsLower overall emissions: Lower mixing tem-
peratures to manufacture WMA means reduced
consumption of burner fuel, conservation of
non-renewable fossil fuels, and reduced green-
house gas emissions.
Improved working environment: The reduction
in fuel burned reduces emissions of aerosols
and fumes, both at the mixing plant and the
paving site, improving conditions for both the
workers and the neighbouring communities.
Lower asphalt temperatures improve general
worker safety and reduces the risk of heat-
related injuries.
Engineering benefits: WMA offers a host of
engineering benefits, including:
• Its improved workability and compactability
that is beneficial for hand work such as at
intersections, widening, around manholes or
for patching.
• The longer “compaction window” provides
significant advantages over HMA when trans-
porting and paving asphalt at night and in
cold weather. It allows for longer haulage
distances or times. WMA can be produced
at normal HMA temperatures to enable sub-
stantially longer haulage distances or times
to be achieved.
• The reduced temperatures of WMA can
be expected to reduce binder ageing dur-
ing manufacture and paving, and result in
improved durability, flexibility and resistance
to fatigue and age cracking, resulting in
reduced life cycle costs.
• There is close synergy between WMA and
asphalt recycling, where the WMA technol-
ogy tends to improve the compactibility of
stiffer mixes resulting from the incorporation
of high proportions of recycled asphalt (RA).
This last point – highlighting the use of RA (up
to 40%) in WMA – is important in the areas of
sustainability, the conservation of diminishing
resources and also the reduction of infrastruc-
ture cost to the taxpayer.
By substituting varying proportions of aggre-
gate requirements in any particular WMA mix,
existing assets (the distressed pavement that
is being recycled) are used rather than virgin
aggregate. The RA also includes a proportion
of aged bitumen, which is rejuvenated in the
WMA manufacturing process. Recycled materi-
als therefore include both pre-owned aggregate
and bitumen, and offers significant savings in
the construction of new pavements.
An additional and unexpected benefit that
arose during the WMA development and trial
period, initiated by the eThekwini Municipality
in 2008, was the unique synergy that emerged
The benefi ts of warm mix asphalt
The imperative of sustainable practices in the road construction industry has been accepted throughout the world.
ABOVE The effects of reducing asphalt manufacturing temperatures can best be seen when loading asphalt into a tipper truck. The silo on the left is loading con-ventional hot mix asphalt, that on the left is discharging WMA, and the reduction in fume emissions is clearly visible
SUPPLIERS OF
Test Sieves & Sieve ShakersCivil Laboratory Equipment
labconLaboratory Drying Ovens
Bitumen - Asphalt Testing Equipment
Soils Testing Equipment
Concrete Testing Equipment
Continuous Flow Filterless Centrifuge
Marshall Computerized 50kN Load Frame with Digital Display Unit
Marshall Stability Mould Automatic Penetrometer
CBR/UCS/ITT/MAR Machine Nuclear MoistureDensity Gauge
1m Dynamic Cone Penetrometer
Fully Automatic Concrete Cube PressModel PREC3FT -
High Stability Stiffness Frame
Fully Automatic / AC type
Slump Set Consisting of:Slump Cone, Tray, Tamper, Hopper, Ruler & Scoop
Concrete Testing Hammer Mpa - reading
Cast Iron & Nylon Rubber Concrete Cube Moulds
100mm & 150mm &Concrete Cube Tamper
CBR Body, Collar, Perforated Base Plate,
Compaction Base Plate & Soaking Weight
DICK KING LAB SUPPLIES (Pty) Ltd
Tel: +27 (0)11 499 9400Fax: +27 (0)11 493 6349
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected] 6, Selby 515, Prop Street,Selby, Johannesburg, Gauteng
IMIESA October 2012 57
between the client, the consulting engineers
working on the WMA mix design, the manufac-
turers producing the mix and the contractors
who carried out the paving. This cooperation,
which continued throughout the three-year trial
period, resulted in the development of a WMA
template that will facilitate the implementa-
tion of WMA for many years to come, and
also in the publication of Sabita’s Manual
32: Best practice guideline for warm mix
asphalt, which was launched at CAPSA’11 in
September 2011.
This guideline synthesises the technical and
practical experience gained from the three tri-
als carried out by the eThekwini Municipality,
as well as that gathered by members of the
Warm Mix Asphalt Interest Group (WMAIG) who
undertook a study tour of several European
Union countries in August and September
2010. The document was drafted by a team of
WMAIG members and was subjected to both
local and international peer review.
The relatively rapid introduction of this new
technology into South Africa – it took just
over three years – has surprised the asphalt
industry in a number of countries where the
process is taking much longer. This quick
response no doubt hinges to a large extent
on the excellent cooperation and teamwork
between all parties as mentioned above and in
particular those professionals and practition-
ers involved in the WMAIG.
South Africa’s bituminous products sec-
tor has acknowledged that the process of
entrenching WMA technology was also facilitat-
ed by the boldness of eThekwini Municipality’s
Road Rehabilitation Branch, which took the
initiative to use new technologies on its roads
and to implement sustainable and environmen-
tally friendly processes.
ABOVE Members of the Society for Asphalt Technology inspect WMA paving in Greyville, Durban
SABITA
Ammann Construction Machinery South Africa
229 Hull Road, Rynfield, Benoni 1500Tel. + 27 11 849 3333 Fax + 27 11 849 8889
Mobil + 27 82 554 7620rocco.lehman @ ammann - group.com
Single drum roller ASC 110.
Productivity Partnership for a Lifetime
An innovative family firmAmmann is a leading supplier of plant and machinery, with the focus very firmly on road building. Our strengths are the forthcoming approach of a family firm that has been operating for many years, coupled with our strong and well - established international presence. Ever since 1869 we have been setting benchmarks in the road - building industry, thanks to countless innovations and solutions which are as competitive as they are dependable.
For more information on compaction machines, asphalt mixing plants and pavers go to www.ammann - group.com
IMIESA October 2012 59
SABITA
ACTOPHAMBILI ROADSTel: +27 (0)11 894 1433
AFRISAM SATel: +27 (0)11 670 5500
AG THOMASTel: +268 518 4499
AJ BROOM ROAD PRODUCTSTel: +27 (0)11 454 3102
AKASIA ROAD SURFACINGTel: +27 (0)12 562 9500
AQUA TRANSPORT & PLANT HIRETel: +27 (0)32 533 6883
ARCUS GIBBTel: +27 (0)21 469 9172
ASPHALT SERVICESTel: +27 (0)43 745 2733
ASTEC – ASPHALT TECHNOLOGYTel: +27 (0)16 362 1310
AURECONTel: +27 (0)12 427 2634
AURECONTel: +27 (0)21 526 9400
BIGEN AFRICA SERVICESTel: +27 (0)11 802 0560
BITUMEN CONSTRUCTION SERVICESTel: +263 (0)4 305 506
BITUMEN SUPPLIES & SERVICESTel: +27 (0)11 803 9338
BKS CONSULTING ENGINEERSTel: +27 (0)11 206 6980
BSM LABORATORIESTel: +27 (0)31 764 6537
CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGYTel: +27 (0)21 959 6664
CHEMIMPO SOUTH AFRICATel: +27 (0)11 293 2058
CHEVRON SOUTH AFRICATel: +27 (0)21 403 7834
COLAS SOUTH AFRICATel: +27 (0)21 531 6406
CONCOR ROADS & EARTHWORKSTel: +27 (0)83 326 6746
DICK KING LAB SUPPLIESTel: +27 (0)11 499 9400
Sabita membersDMV HARRISMITHTel: +27 (0)58 622 2676
DUPONT DE NEMOURS INT SATel: +27 (0)11 218 8600
DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGYTel: +27 (0)33 845 8916
ENGEN PETROLEUMTel: +27 (0)11 480 6389
GMH/CPP CONSULTING ENGINEERSTel: +27 (0)11 462 0601
GOBATel: +27 (0)12 679 9300
GROUP FIVE CIVIL ENGINEERINGTel: +27 (0)11 409 6607
HHO AFRICATel: +27 (0)21 425 2870
ILISO CONSULTINGTel: +27 (0)31 266 2600
IMESATel: +27 (0)31 266 3263
INSTANT ROAD REPAIRS ASPHALTTel: +27 (0)15 291 3225
JAVSEALTel: +27 (0)31 902 5988
JEFFARES AND GREENTel: +27 (0)11 807 0660
KANTEY AND TEMPLERTel: +27 (0)21 405 9600
KAULANI CIVILS SOUTHTel: +27 (0)21 881 3152
KAYMAC T/A KAYTECHTel: +27 (0)31 717 2303
LAFARGE INDUSTRIES SATel: +27 (0)11 657 1156
LETABA LABTel: +27 (0)13 752 7663
LIDWALA CONSULTING ENGINEERSTel: +27 (0)861 543 9252
MDUBANE ENERGY SERVICESTel: +27 (0)31 304 2470
MILLING TECHNIKSTel: +27 (0)31 792 9580
MMILA CIVILS & TRAFFIC SERVICESTel: +27 (0)12 993 3098
MORE ASPHALTTel: +27 (0)21 975 0784
MTTCTel: +27 (0)12 800 3018
MUCH ASPHALTTel: +27 (0)21 900 4411
N3 TOLL CONCESSIONTel: +27 (0)11 454 3596
NADESON CONSULTING SERVICESTel: +27 (0)21 418 4988
NAIDU CONSULTINGTel: +27 (0)31 265 6007
NAMIBIA TECHNICAL SERVICESTel: +264 (0) 61 215 324
NATHOO MBENYANE ENGINEERSTel: +27 (0)31 312 2097
NATIONAL ASPHALTTel: +27 (0)12 562 9533
NEIL SOBOTKER AND ASSOCIATESTel: +27 (0)21 863 2020
OUTENIQUA LABTel: +27 (0)44 874 3274
PD NAIDOO AND ASSOCIATESTel: +27 (0)21 440 5091
PHAMBILI ROAD SURFACINGTel: +27 (0)33 346 1982
POLOKWANE SURFACING Tel: +27 (0)15 293 1221
POWER CONSTRUCTIONTel: +27 (0)21 907 1300
RAND ROADSTel: +27 (0)11 923 5045
RANKIN ENGINEERING CONSULTANTSTel: +260 (211) 290 085
RAUBEXTel: +27 (0)31 700 8216
ROADSMARTTel: +27 (0)21 713 0129
ROADSPAN ASPHALT PLANTSTel: +27 (0)11 552 8505
ROYAL HASKONINGDHVTel: +27 (0)11 798 6051
SALPHALTTel: +27 (0)11 823 2218
SARFTel: +27 (0)11 403 5603
SASOL OILTel: +27 (0)11 889 7872
SASOL TECHNOLOGY FUELS RESEARCHTel: +27 (0)16 960 4068
SASOL WAXTel: +27 (0)16 960 2126
SHELL SA MARKETINGTel: +27 (0)31 571 1000
SPECIALISED ROAD TECHNOLOGIESTel: +27 (0)31 700 4510
SPRAYPAVETel: +27 (0)11 868 5451
TAR SPRAYTel: +27 (0)82 601 9062
TAU PELE CONSTRUCTIONTel: +27 (0)51 436 0103
TOR CONSTRUCTIONTel: +27 (0)44 694 0008
TOSASTel: +27 (0)11 889 7872
TOTAL SATel: +27 (0)11 778 2056
TPA CONSULTINGTel: +27 (0)31 765 1907
TSHEPEGA ENGINEERINGTel: +27 (0)12 665 2722
UNITRANS SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONSTel: +27 (0)21 521 6200
UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA, DEPT CIVIL ENGTel: +27 (0)12 420 2171
UNIVERSITY OF STELLENBOSCHTel: +27 (0)21 808 4379
VAN WYK TARMACTel: +27 (0)12 561 1871
VELA VKETel: +27 (0)12 481 3805
WORLEYPARSONSTel: +27 (0)12 425 6300
WSP SA CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL ENGINEERSTel: +27 (0)11 450 2290
ZEBRA SURFACINGTel: +27 (0)21 761 3474
bidim R
IMIESA October 2012 61
WIRE ROPE
QUADGUARDS
ALPHA 70K TMA
END TERMINALS
Isando 011 392 1242 | Cape Town 021 531 9071 | Durban 031 705 6355
Port Elizabeth 041 486 3674 | Bloemfontein 051 432 0707
Web: www.armcorsp.co.za
SABITA
THE PLANER IS an ideal attachment for efficiently milling
asphalt or concrete, and is ideal for asphalt and concrete
repair jobs, making uneven pavement surfaces a thing of the
past. This compact machine is designed for operator comfort
and excels in demanding construction, industrial and agricultural appli-
cations. Planer ski contact is maintained across uneven surfaces,
which according to Eugene Brown, director at Bobcat Equipment South
Africa, is unique to Bobcat planers.
“This ensures optimum surface tracking for the best reliable output
because the loader travels across any surface to deliver consistent
even cuts,” he says.
With features that enable the operator to work productively and effi-
ciently, the asphalt planer is suitable for any job, from repairs to crea-
tion and removal; the planer utilises the high-flow hydraulic systems of
Bobcat loaders for maximum horsepower and production.
Effi cient output from asphalt planerA new Bobcat asphalt planer delivers all the power required to meet demanding and diverse applications.
The new asphalt planer in action
62 IMIESA October 2012
SABITA
THIS IS WELL ILLUSTRATED on
Metso Mobile’s latest and most
advanced track-mounted jaw crusher
plant, the Lokotrack LT120.
Significantly, the Lokotrack LT120 uses the
same field-proven technology seen in Metso’s
tracked units for over 26 years
“Building on this track-record, the LT120
combines crushing per formance and
user-friendly design in a new, revolution-
ary way,” points out Andrew Stones, sales
manager for Barloworld Equipment’s Metso
Mobile division.
The new on-board C120 jaw crusher, with
its feed opening width and depth of 1 200
and 870 mm, respectively, provides excellent
capacity even in the toughest applications
and is optimally designed to meet the require-
ments of aggregate producers, medium- and
large-scale contractors, and mining concerns.
Metso’s primary targets in developing
this unit are safety, reliability, simplified
A new benchmark for crushingA reliable and efficient mobile crushing plant is a sum of several factors working together smoothly.
IMIESA October 2012 63
SABITA
maintenance, energy efficiency and long
operational life.
Good examples of safety in-built on the
Lokotrack LT120 include sturdy, easy-
to-open composite flywheel guards and
hydraulically folding and locking feed hop-
per sides. Additionally, jaw die bolts are
readily accessible.
“The result of in-depth field research, the
C120 comes equipped with a large feed open-
ing, a very aggressive cavity nip angle and an
extremely long stroke in the
bottom of the cavity
to achieve the high-
est possible capac-
ity in its class. Plus,
for the first time, the
same Lokotrack model
is available either as a hydrau-
lically or electrically driven
option,” continues Stones.
Power delivery on the hydraulic version is
provided by a 310 kW Cat C13 engine. In
turn, the Lokotrack LT120E electric powered
unit sources its energy from an external sup-
ply or a 420 kV on-board diesel generator,
depending on the preferred configuration
set-up. The operating weight on the LT120
and LT120E are 57 and 63 t respectively with
the same compact dimensions for road legal
low-bed transportation.
LEFT The Lokotrack LT120 is the latest and most advanced of Metso’s track-mounted jaw crusher plants
The Lokotrack LT120
SABITA
THE INCREASE IN the power to weight ratio and the high effi-
ciency of the latest generation Atlas Copco small, medium
and heavy hydraulic breakers translate to reduced investment
and operating costs for lower overall cost of ownership. This
is the view of Neville Stewart, business line manager: construction
tools division.
He explains: “Less hydraulic input power is required from the car-
rier, while maximum impact performance is maintained, which calls
for smaller carriers and lower investment costs,” adding that less
input demand from the hydraulic system to operate the breaker means
Low costs and high productivityThe Atlas Copco Solid Body concept of the small hydraulic breakers integrates the percussion mechanism and guide system into one block of steel, including a 20% weight reduction.
64 IMIESA October 2012
IMIESA October 2012 65
SABITA
reduced fuel consumption and resultant lower
operating costs. “This makes our range of
hydraulic breakers efficient and suitable for a
wide range of market segments including min-
ing and quarrying, heavy demolition, renova-
tion, construction, metallurgical industry and
underwater applications.”
Powered by a combination of oil and gas,
the breaker becomes vir tually independent
from the hydraulic oil supply. About 70% of
the impact energy is generated by the gas
from the piston accumulator and only 30% by
the oil supply from the carrier. The breaker,
in combination with the internal control valve,
is able to convert the required hydraulic input
into more hydraulic output, thus improving the
use of energy resources.
Atlas Copco medium and heavy hydraulic
breakers are particularly suitable for mine and
quarry applications when:
• loading is primarily done by wheel loaders
• backhoe loaders or heavy-duty excavators
(with service weights upward of 150 t) are
in use
• loaded rock is very tough
• secondary reduction is subcontracted.
The hydraulic breaker design is kind to man,
machine and the neighbourhood, as well as
the environment.
“Our breaker range is proof that high per-
formance does not compromise environmen-
tal friendliness,” comments Stewart. The
VibroSilenced hydraulic breakers ensure effec-
tive noise and vibration damping as standard
and, according to Stewart, the breakers are
among the quietest in the industry. In addi-
tion to lower vibrations, which reduces wear
and tear on carriers, the Solid Body design
concept and the new impact mechanism also
reduces noise levels to approximately 6 dB(A).
The VibroSilenced Plus system on the medium
and large hydraulic breakers reduces strain
on the breaker, carrier and operator, while
the Atlas Copco recovery system helps to
absorb recoil.
Increased impact performance due to Energy
Recovery is a feature that minimises mainte-
nance costs. The equipment is easy to use,
including the easy set-up, which prevents or
minimises downtime, is easier to service and
easy to lubricate for full efficiency. Additional
features including PowerAdapt (detection of
excessive carrier settings on all HB breakers),
ContiLube II (eliminates regular manual greas-
ing intervals), and DustProtector II.
The hydraulic breakers enhance productiv-
ity by allowing continuous operations without
interruptions for blasting and clearing, which
also allows for more flexible planning. The
cost of initial work impacts the profitability
of the overall mining operation, thus using
an Atlas Copco hydraulic breaker reduces the
costs of removing the overburden with faster
productivity and more flexibility.
BELOW The new hydraulic breakers offer reduced fuel consumption and lower operating costs
Less input demand from the hydraulic system to operate the breaker means reduced fuel consumption
MANUFACTURERS & SUPPLIERS OF PIPE FITTINGS SINCE 1984
Cascade has a full range of Couplings and Flange Adaptors from 50mm to 800mm.
Larger sizes up to DN 1600mm and higher pressures up to PN40 are available on request
Tel: +27 (11) 824 3943Fax: +27 (11) 827 0556Email: [email protected]: www.cascade.co.za
PANEL DISCUSSION • Introduction
IMIESA October 2012 67
THE LATEST IN ROAD CONSTRUCTION
by Candice Landie
It is common knowledge that road con-
struction products, equipment and tech-
nology are essential in building South
Africa’s vital transport network. However,
a factor that is often neglected, yet remains
an important, is precision quality engineering,
which most companies claim to offer but not
all can deliver on. Technology of choice for
each operation, the correct type and cost of
equipment and the overall running and mainte-
nance costs of road products and equipment,
play a huge factor in enhancing road projects
and delivering on imperative customer service.
But with all the equipment, products and
technology available in South Africa – both
imported and locally manufactured – what
makes certain road products a cut above the
rest. How do your products assist in the quality
construction of roads? What feature/s does
your equipment or products offer, which give it
a competitive edge? How does your equipment
or products fair in terms of purchase price,
efficiency, maintenance and warranty? Do you
offer an after-sales service? IMIESA com-
pares the latest road construction products,
equipment and technology available in the
market – to help municipalities, industry and
decision-makers in their selection of road
construction products.
Timely road maintenance is extremely important as it sustains the quality and safety of the country’s ar terial networks.
LET YOUR BRAND STAND OUT WITH 3S MEDIA
Then 3S MEDIA’S products are for you.
Our brands reach the infrastructure and service delivery, water, waste management, mining and conferencing industries.
WE OFFER YOU print magazines, buyers’ guides,
directories and supplements exact replica online magazines with limited animation and hyperlinks to your website
with multimedia functionality on websites accessible via computers or mobile phones, harnessing the power of video and animationBanner adverts your own website event or job listing Event sponsorships and exhibition stands.
MEDIA
FOR MORE ABOUT 3S MEDIA’S OFFERINGS VISIT www.3smedia.co.za or e-mail [email protected]
Scan here to go to website
IMIESA October 2012 69
ROELOF JACOBS – Manager: Products & Customer Support – Quality Department
Southern Africa – LAFARGE SOUTH AFRICA
What are the major chal-lenges experienced in lo-cal road construction and how do your products, equipment or technology assist in the quality con-struction of roads? The
diverse demands on the country’s
resources impact the road sector.
Frequently, a short-term expedi-
ent use of asphalt is adopted
rather than a decision based on
life cycle costing that takes into
account the low maintenance ben-
efits of concrete roads and new
technologies such as ultra thin,
high-strength concrete paving.
Lafarge South Africa is a leader
in adapting international best
practice technology for the benefit
of the local construction industry.
Examples of this are:
• Soil stabilisation – Lafarge
introduced the innovative
specialised cementitious road-
binder, RoadCem CEM II/B-M
(V-S) 32,5N in 2010 – at the
time it was the first of its kind
in the market. Designed to con-
trol the plasticity and enhance
the strength of various road
making materials, RoadCem
has been highly successful.
Subject to an assessment of
the road material, contractors
also have the option of using
our well-known general purpose
cement, Buildcrete.
• Concrete – Lafarge Readymix
continually introduces prod-
ucts of Lafarge research
such as the Agilia range of
self-compacting concretes,
and the recently launched
Hydromedia – the company’s
breakthrough in concrete drain-
age technology.
How do your products or equipment fair in terms of purchase price, efficiency, maintenance and warranty? Innovation in
products and services provides
real value that differentiates
Lafarge from its competitors. For
example, the Lafarge Stoltz Site
Spreader is able to consistently
and comfortably spread cement
from 3.5 kg/m² to 50 kg/m² in
one pass, which is currently unat-
tainable with any other equipment
in South Africa. Lafarge South
Africa can assist cement custom-
ers with product application
policy and technical investigation
work, by providing access to the
unique technical and laboratory
resources of Quality Department
Southern Africa (QDSA) at
Industria, Gauteng. QDSA oper-
ates one of the largest and most
respected SANAS accredited civil
engineering testing facilities in
South Africa. Complying with ISO/
IEC 17025, the facility has a
proud 16-year track record of con-
tinuous accreditation. Similarly,
the Lafarge South Africa Readymix
business operates three regional
laboratories, including the SANAS
accredited one in Cape Town.
The business conducts all its
own quality control testing and
provides a laboratory service to
contractors and engineers.
Does your company offer an after-sales service on projects? Lafarge maintains
an ongoing interest in the perfor-
mance of its products and their
application techniques as a key
part of working with customers
to continually develop enhanced
value, innovative products and
services. Should a problem arise
on a project or a customer has
technical queries with regard to
the performance of Lafarge prod-
ucts, the company has technical
service staff on the ground that
will investigate and carry out any
necessary laboratory testing.
What would you like to see changed in the future with regard to road construction in the country? With regard to road
construction contractors, the
overall challenge largely centres
on the bitumen versus concrete
debate. We believe all stake-
holders have a role to play in
creating better informed, better
coordinated guidelines regarding
the short-term, lower cost expe-
diency of using bitumen, versus
the long-term durability, low
maintenance but higher capital
outlay of concrete.
Lafarge is actively involved in
new technology development
such as ultra-thin continu-
ously reinforced concrete paving
(UTCRCP) and contributes locally
to the better understanding
of the benefits of concrete for
road construction through the
excellent work of the Cement &
Concrete Institute.
Lafarge is the world’s leading cement company and a world leader in building materials. The core business of Lafarge South Africa are the manufacturer and supply of cement, aggregates, readymixed concrete, gypsum plasterboard and interior building fittings. The company works closely with all players in the construction industry chain to develop innovative solutions to their current and future needs.
Lafarge offers road construction contractors the unique specialised roadbinder, RoadCem; road and concrete aggregates; technical backup from the world’s largest building materials research and development facility; support services such as QDSA (one of the largest and most respected SANAS accredited civil engineering testing facilities in South Africa); a range of spreading equipment for soil stabilisation cements, including the unique Lafarge Stoltz Site Spreader; mobile concrete pumps and mobile concrete batch plants.Additional information is available on the website at www.lafarge.com
The state-of-art Lafarge Stoltz site spreader
The company offers road contractors extensive support services including the unique Lafarge Stoltz Site Spreader
ROADS INFRASTRUCTURE
PANEL DISCUSSION
For further information contact us on;-Tel: (012) 001 7086Fax: 086 239 1243E-mail: [email protected]
One unit repairs in excess of 200 potholes per day
The Hole Solutionon
!Potholes
Making South Africa’s roads safer for all
A fast and economic alternative to road rehabilitation solutions
Before During AfterBefore During After
IMIESA October 2012 71
Q. What services and/or products are offered by Velocity Patching? Velocity offers fast and efficient
repairs to numerous types of
road defects, for example, the
reinstatement of broken road
edges, potholes, sheet patching
to cracked road surfaces, and
the filling of depressions, all with
the use of specialised and se-
lected materials. Velocity’s repair
operation basically consists of a
three step simultaneous process,
that is:
(a) clear all dust and loose
debris from the defect and
expose any cracks with com-
pressed air
(b) apply tack or prime emulsion
coat at high velocity to ensure
maximum penetration, result-
ing in an optimum seal
(c) apply evenly coated cold-mix
asphalt to defect in thin layers
from the bottom up, ensuring
maximum compaction.
What are the major chal-lenges experienced in lo-cal road construction and how do your products, equipment or technology assist in the quality con-struction of roads? Gen-
eral road maintenance in many
areas has been overlooked due
to budget restraints, and conse-
quently, existing maintenance
teams cannot effectively cope
with the backlogs that now exist.
Furthermore some of the meth-
ods used to deal with the repairs
of road defects are inadequate or
at best only serve as temporary
measures. The repair jobs are of-
ten carried out by inexperienced
or unqualified contractors simply
for the sake of creating additional
job opportunities. Unfortunately
more permanent repairs and ef-
fective preventative maintenance
require technical knowledge,
specialised equipment and the
use of selected materials. These
conditions need to be continu-
ously monitored and applied cor-
rectly. Velocity offers the required
knowledge and expertise with the
aid of specialised equipment that
has been developed and evolved
after 20 years in the field. Speed
and performance are also critical
to addressing any backlog and
sustaining an effective preventa-
tive maintenance programme that
is economically viable. No other
process can match Velocity in
this regard.
How does your prod-ucts or equipment fair in terms of purchase price, efficiency, maintenance and warranty? Velocity SA
has made a substantial invest-
ment in acquiring the licence to
operate in Southern Africa (from
Velocity UK), train personnel (op-
erational and technical), acquire
numerous machines (seven at
present), and the manufactur-
ing licence for the specialised
polymer modified emulsions
developed by Colas/Velocity UK.
Velocity SA is therefore a fully
operational service provider and
does not retail road maintenance
equipment or machines. Conse-
quently, the client benefits from
a well-controlled process that is
carried out by qualified staff and
applied using the best technology
available in the world today – the
results of which equates to a
fast and economic alternative to
conventional patching.
Does your company offer an after-sales service on projects? The Velocity
process deals primarily with the
surface layer of the road and
not necessarily the condition or
stability of the road base or sub-
base. Therefore any guarantee
may be limited. We monitor all
repair work for up to a full year
and refurbish repair work if and
when required for a period of 12
months; however, that has not
proven necessary to date.
What have been some of the challenges expe-rienced with local and national government with regard to road construc-tion, and what would you like to see change in the future? Velocity has done
countless presentations and on-
site demonstrations in numerous
parts of the country. All of which
have made an impression and
the overall response has been
very positive.
In reality, there appears to be
an urgent need for additional
funding to meet road maintenance
requirements; not just for dealing
with backlogs but for the introduc-
tion of sustainable preventative
maintenance programmes. The
establishment of Velocity in South
Africa represents a much needed
initiative by the private sector;
however, it now requires the
support from local government in
order to succeed.
FRANK CATTICH – CEO – VELOCITY ROAD REHABILITATION
ROADS INFRASTRUCTURE
ABOVE Velocity polymer modified emulsion developed in collaboration with Colas UK, now produced locally by Colas SA. The picture indicates core samples taken for analysis after a year
BELOW Defect repair combined with preventative sheet patching
PANEL DISCUSSION
…about increasing your productivity and profitability with
Trimble technology. You’ll be surprised at just how easy it is.
Trimble Heavy Civil Construction Division (800) 361-1249 (937) 245-5154 FAX: (937) 233-9441 © 2012 Trimble Navigation Limited. All rights reserved. TC-165 (02/12)
Talk to CLM Positioning Solutions today
Tel: +27 11 708 7206 www.clmps.com
wasting time and money...
IMIESA October 2012 73
MARK SMITH – MD – CLM POSITIONING SOLUTIONS
What are the major challenges experienced in local road construc-tion and how do your products, equipment or technology assist in the quality construction of roads? MS One of the biggest
problems facing the roads and
earthworks contractor is the
lack of skills. We are often told
by contractors that they battle
to find good final level grader
operators. Trimble’s 3D systems
integrate high-precision GPS,
lasers and optical positioning
with a sophisticated control
system and extensive software,
enabling operators to precisely
grade complex sites up to an
accuracy of 5 mm. This precision
reduces rework and increases
job site productivity by more
than 25%. Contractors need to
track all expenditure on site and
this includes knowing where
their plant is used (or not), and
allocating these expenses to
the correct cost centres. We
offer mobile asset management
systems designed specifically
for the contractor. Knowing when
a vehicle is working and when it
is idling, and knowing how much
fuel was burnt, can add huge
value overall. Companies that
have clamped down on excessive
idling have saved 20% on their
fuel bill.
How do your products or equipment fair in terms of purchase price, efficiency, maintenance and warranty? We offer a
complete range of products for
all on-site positioning applica-
tions, from a simple laser tape
measure to a 3D automated
grade controlled motor grader.
Trimble Grade Control Systems
can be installed on machines
from any vendor and use industry
standard inter faces to deliver a
system that allows contractors
to easily add more sensors and
upgrade software as needed
to meet specific machine and
application requirements. From
laser or sonic-based through to
3D, these rugged systems are
easy to use, fully upgradable and
flexible enough to meet a
wide range of applications and
job site requirements.
Does your company offer an after-sales service on projects? We understand that
downtime costs money. We under-
stand that for contractors to reap
the rewards of high productivity
using Trimble Grade Control sys-
tems, they must have timely sup-
port from their supplier. In order
to provide world-class support, we
have factory trained technicians
in our Trimble authorised service
centre, and we have a large stock
holding of spares to perform
these repairs. We are very proud
to say that most of the systems
we sell can be repaired locally, at
our workshop in Johannesburg.
We employ a dedicated team of
field technicians and support spe-
cialists to perform installations
and provide training and ongoing
support. Trimble provides us with
regular training to ensure we are
on top of our game.
What have been some of the challenges expe-rienced with local and national government, and what would you like to see change in the future? We would like to
see government offer bonuses
to contractors who provide a
world-class product with better
rideability. This way we would
see more technology used to
achieve per fect layer thickness,
proven compaction and better
final levels. Stronger roads
with smoother sur faces means
better pavement durability, less
unnecessary wear and tear on
vehicles and a much safer driv-
ing experience.
Through all phases of the con-
struction process, our solutions
help streamline work processes,
minimise downtime and rework,
which increases productivity and
profitability for the contractor.
CLM Positioning Solutions supplies the most complete range of positioning solutions for the construction market, including design and data prep software, grade control machine systems for earthmoving, site positioning systems for construction survey, general and interior building laser tools, and mobile asset management. Our solutions are based on Trimble’s experience in developing positioning products for the harsh construction environment. Trimble lasers, total stations, GPS positioning and wireless technologies give customers more control over their job site.
BELOW GCS900 Dual GPS Motor grader
One of the biggest problems facing the roads and earthworks contractor is the lack of skills
ROADS INFRASTRUCTURE
PANEL DISCUSSION
POLOKWANE SURFACING is committed toproducing and paving quality asphalt
(Pty)Limited
ASPHALT PRODUCERS & SURFACING CONTRACTORS
The ROADTEC Shuttle Buggy :R
Remixes the asphalt to a consistent temperature
Continuous feed reduces joints in paving
Eliminates segregation in the mix
Tel : 015 293 1221 - Fax : 015 293 1258email : [email protected] - www.polokwanesurfacing.co.za
IMIESA October 2012 75
TREVOR FREESTONE – MD – POLOKWANE SURFACING
What are the major chal-lenges experienced in local road construc-tion and how do your products, equipment or technology assist in the quality construction of roads? TF The South African
road network consists of a large
number of ageing roads. The traf-
fic volumes and intensity thereof
has also increased exponen-
tially over the past few decades.
Polokwane Surfacing operates a
modern fleet of pavers, rollers,
milling machines, chip spreaders,
haulage trucks, asphalt plants
and other ancillary equipment to
enable us to offer the full range
of service from road mainte-
nance to the surfacing of newly
constructed roads. We recently
purchased a Roadtec Shuttle
Buggy, which was only the third
of its kind to be brought into
South Africa.
The use of this machine is
essential for the paving of
ultra-thin friction coarse seals;
however, it has vast benefits
to the quality of the finished
product when paving any grade
of asphalt sur facing.
Local refineries have, in recent
times, struggled to meet the
bitumen supply-demand of the
road industry. We have recently
invested in a Drum Decanting
Plant, which allows us to stock-
pile local bitumen in drums
during the periods when bitumen
is readily available. We thus have
a backup supply for use when
the refineries are on shutdown or
when bitumen is in scarce sup-
ply. By drumming South African
bitumen rather than importing bi-
tumen, we ensure the quality and
consistency of our bitumen and
downstream products. Although
this is an insurance policy for a
rainy day, it allows us the ability
to complete our projects with
less risk of disruption or delay.
How does your product or equipment fair in terms of purchase price, efficiency, maintenance and warranty? Although the
geographic nature of our market
is small when compared to other
larger players in the bigger city,
we believe we are leaders in
the industry, dominating the
nor thern region of South Africa.
Our modern fleet ensures quality
and reliability, and our dedicated
and competent staff ensures
quality and delivery. This is
fur ther enhanced by the good
relationships we maintain with
our suppliers, strategic par tners
and related companies, and is
filtered through to our valued
clients. Our products are all
produced and placed in accord-
ance with industry norms and
standard specifications such as
COLTO or SANS or the SABITA
guidelines – whichever are ap-
plicable. Our production plants
are ISO 9001 cer tified, which
ensures consistent quality and
peace of mind.
Does your company offer an after-sales service on projects? Not only do we offer
an after-sales service, but we are
always willing to give advice on
available products, local conditions
and alternate products or designs.
When we commit to a project,
we will always avail ourselves
to the successful completion of
that project. Often as surfacing
subcontractors to other contrac-
tors, we are required to fit into the
main contractor’s programme. We
are a versatile company willing to
take on any project from driveways
to highways.
What have been some of the challenges expe-rienced with local and national government, and what would you like to see change in the future? One of the biggest problems
we face, mainly with local and
provincial governments, is when
political alliances are chosen
over price, capacity, quality and
service. In our home province of
Limpopo, corruption has featured
extensively over the past few
months. National government’s
intervention into the provincial
government’s administration has
caused a slowdown in projects.
We trust that this will soon
normalise and we can continue
to deliver quality services to
the people of our province. With
regard to national government,
we mainly deal with Sanral, and
it is always a pleasure tendering
for it. If your tender comes in the
lowest and you conform to the
requirements of the tender with
regard to BBBEE and capacity in
line with the CIDB grading, you
are generally confident of being
awarded the job. This goes a long
way in the planning and manage-
ment of our business. Similarly it
is a pleasure working for Sanral
Polokwane Surfacing offers a wide range of products and services related to bituminous road surfaces. Its product range can be broken down into prime coats, chip seals and slurries, asphalt seals, and crack sealing. The company also offers road maintenance and rehabilitation services, such as crack sealing, patching and texture slurries.
Our products are all produced and placed in accordance with industry norms and standard specifi cation
ROADS INFRASTRUCTURE
BELOW RIGHT Asphalt surfacing on the N1 Section 27 near Polokwane BELOW LEFT Asphalt surfacing of streets in Polokwane
as it has a clear set of rules that
are consistently applied; it usually
appoints competent consulting
engineers, and its payment record
is impeccable. Ultimately, South
Africa requires a great deal of
investment in infrastructure. If the
limited public funds available are
spent wisely on quality products
that are good value for money, we
will have a better outcome.
PANEL DISCUSSION
IMIESA October 2012 77
What are the major challenges experienced in local road construc-tion and how do your products, equipment or technology assist in the quality construc-tion of roads? PG The
main obstacles, challenges and
concerns with respect to road
construction in South Africa are:
limited government resources; an
enormous backlog in total repair
and maintenance solutions;
limited centralised, local and in-
tegrated IT Project Management
Offices; late payments, which are
especially detrimental to SMMEs;
qualified labour-intensive alterna-
tive solutions (products and
technology); lack of transparency
and accountability; and limited in-
terdepartmental communication,
focus and holistic strategies.
National Cold Asphalt (NCA), part
of a Raubex, ensures maximum
delivery, support and infrastruc-
ture; all its products supplied
meet with relative national and
local road authority standards;
all its machinery, equipment and
products supplied genuinely aim
to optimise national government
strategy and policy to increase
labour in all construction applica-
tions. Being part of a JSE-listed
entity means the company main-
tains strict codes of conduct,
business ethic, production and
staff/labour relations.
How do your products, equipment or technology fair in terms of purchase price, efficiency, main-tenance and warranty? NCA considers itself to be the
market leader locally in terms
of continuous development and
innovations with all its products
supplied. Our initial cold mix
was originally licensed from the
World Asphalt Convention held in
Florida (US) in March 2009, and
is arguably considered to be in
the top three products globally.
Our infrared ProMix and LT40
‘hot mix in a bag’ was developed
through our national laboratories
and engineers for SMMEs that
have difficulty getting access and
supply from hot mix plants, and
are adversely affected by time,
wastage, weather conditions or
geographic locations. Our ‘Chippy’
manually-operated chip spreader
has won numerous SABITA and lo-
cal awards for innovation and opti-
mising labour in constructions. All
our materials used for the specific
applications mentioned result in
enormous cost savings from an
input and productivity perspective.
Our products also carry qualified
warranties with perpetual data
sheets and testing to ensure
we supply quality materials at
all times.
Does your company offer an after-sales service? Being part of ‘big brother’
Raubex means we have the
ability to provide total support at
all levels to all sizes of emerg-
ing contractors. We are proud
to say that our company has
numerous members of staff that
have varied levels of incredible
personal expertise with decades
of work experience. This has
been visibly noticeable in our
ability to develop sustainable
working relationships and models
that truly empower our focused
SMME initiatives, providing
opportunities for all members
of our community ranging from
the unskilled, semi-skilled and
operators, through to foremen,
management, administration
that the private sector needs to
make more diligent investments in
previously disadvantaged commu-
nities where infrastructure is espe-
cially poor and neglected. This
means investing in programmes
that are not ‘quick fixes’ or purely
there to gain the necessary BEE
points for tenders, but rather
programmes that will enable the
beneficiaries to genuinely contrib-
ute to themselves, their communi-
ties and the economy as a whole.
I would like to see transparent,
reciprocal investment and return
on investment for all parties
concerned. Giving our youth and
future generations a real sense
of hope, ownership and belonging
is all it will take to truly unite our
incredible rainbow nation.
National Cold Asphalt (NCA) offers the following products and services: NCA Wearing Course cold mix; NCA BTB Base Course cold mix; ProMix Infrared pothole repair; LT40 continuous grade ‘hot mix in a bag’; and ‘Chippy’ manually-operated chip spreader. NCA endorses and supports a comprehensive SMME Development Model including: CIDB accredited training and safety; access to world-class technology partnerships; access to government grants and CAPEX funding; access to financing models for vehicles, CAPEX, equipment and tools; and credit facilities with preferred banks and qualified suppliers.
We have the ability to provide total support at all levels
Below left NCA Cold Mix repairs carried out on the N1 South between Pretoria and Johannesburg
PASCAL GARRIOCH – Business Development Consultant
– NATIONAL COLD ASPHALT
ROADS INFRASTRUCTURE
and owners. We have dedicated
staff (myself included) that focus
on all key areas of support to
ensure continuous delivery and
long-term success is maintained.
What have been some of the challenges expe-rienced with local and national government, and what would you like to see change in the future? The main challenge, I person-
ally feel, is to consolidate and
integrate all positive national
and local government efforts,
programmes and initiatives. It is
almost impossible right now to
get to all the various departments
to integrate and make optimal
use of their collective SMME
programmes. I also firmly believe
PANEL DISCUSSION
Tel: 0861266267www.technicrete.co.za
EROSION PROTECTION SOLUTIONSAND PAVED ROADS
• Pave roadways, pathways, driveways and line canals, river banks and dams• Products let you make use of local labour• Technical back up and training• Projects remain as good as new after many years
For long lasting low-maintenance systems, Technicrete’s range of concrete paving and erosion protection blocks is the answer!
paving concrete masonry
retaining walls
drainage kerbs
erosion protection precast products
IMIESA October 2012 79
ALBERT WEBER – MD – TECHNICRETE
What are the major chal-lenges experienced in lo-cal road construction and how do your products, equipment or technology assist in the quality con-struction of roads? AW The major challenges experi-
enced in road construction come
from financial constraints at the
level of the road owner – the mu-
nicipality. The most important tool
the municipal design engineer has
is life cycle costs, whereby the
total investment cost of a project
is ascertained. Usually new
infrastructure may be financed
externally. There is absolutely no
excuse to go for inferior products,
equipment or technology when
new capital projects are undertak-
en. Maintenance, however, cannot
be financed externally but must
be funded from direct income,
such as rates and taxes. It is
therefore easy to explain that the
limiting factor in road construc-
tion is the maintenance budget.
It should be a criminal offence to
create infrastructure that cannot
be maintained. Therefore the
municipal maintenance budget
dictates the type of roads a mu-
nicipality can afford. Technicrete’s
products, such as concrete block
pavers, kerbs, erosion control and
landscape products, are immi-
nently suitable to feature in capi-
tal projects where life cycle cost
principals control expenditure and
capital investments. In the rural
areas, where labour-intensive
projects take place, the construc-
tion of quality roads is provided
through Technicrete’s training of
local community members on, for
example, how to lay paving, which
in turn creates employment op-
portunities and empowerment.
How do your products or equipment fair in terms of purchase price, efficiency, maintenance
and warranty? Technicrete’s
products are extremely cost effec-
tive when compared to other sup-
pliers of similar products or even
when compared to other types
of products and services used in
similar situations. The fact that
we have been in the industry for
so long proves that we have im-
mense experience and are driven
to keep on improving and coming
up with innovative products. We
use world-class equipment and
ensure at all times that we stay
abreast of changes within the
industry, whether they be techno-
logical or product specific in the
form of raw materials, moulds,
etc. If our products are applied
correctly the first time they last
for years and years to come.
Does your company offer an after-sales service on projects? Most definitely!
We offer after-sales service in
the form of long-term guarantees
on our products and services
and we also provide continuous
consultative advice both pre- and
post-construction.
What have been some of the challenges expe-rienced with local and national government,
and what would you like to see change in the future? What we would like to
see change is the attitude that
everything should be cheap at
the investment stage with scant
regard for future cost implica-
tions. Even when some future
maintenance costs have been
taken into consideration, it has
been proven time and again that
these maintenance issues may
be abandoned by the department
to the detriment of the entire
organisation and the ratepayers.
Another important issue that we
would like to see changing is the
enforcement of SABS-accredited
products for all players in the
industry. If government could
be strict about this, there would
not be delivery of poor quality
products that end up cracking and
not being durable like accredited
SABS products. It becomes dif-
ficult competing with companies
that will sell their products at
extremely low margins because
they know that the products that
they are manufacturing are not up
to standard.
There should be a drive from
government’s side to ensure that
SMMEs are provided with proper
training and that when they land
major contracts from government
tenders they are paid on time
because the late payments that
are currently taking place have led
to a number of these companies
being shut down and the owners
being left blacklisted. It’s all good
and well to encourage people to
be entrepreneurs, but, support
and mentoring should also be in
place. Although our government
comes up with good initiatives, it
is important to ensure that proper
planning takes place to avoid de-
lays and projects running late.
Technicrete employs the highest technological standards in the manufacture of concrete products for the building construction and mining industries. With factories in Olifantsfontein, Welkom, Stilftontein, Carletonville, Polokwane, Witbank and White River, the company is one of the largest manufacturers of precast concrete products in South Africa. Technicrete manufactures an extensive range of products such pavers, kerbs, masonry, roof tiles, retaining walls, and erosion and flood control drainage systems. The company also customises its offering to suit specific requirements for the mining industry.
There is absolutely no excuse to go for inferior products, equipment or technology
ROADS INFRASTRUCTURE
Below left Armorflex Project in Pretoria
Below Beany Blocks -used on the N4 highway
PANEL DISCUSSION
Delivering sustainable
infrastructure that
improves our world.
“DOING GOOD WHILE
DOING BUSINESS”
Contact www.bigenafrica.com, or the office most convenient to you: Pretoria (012) 842 8700; Johannesburg (011) 802 0560; Bloemfontein (051) 430 1423; Cape Town (021) 919 6976; Durban (031) 717 2571; East London (043) 748 6230; Gabarone [email protected]; Kuruman (053) 712 2882; Mafikeng (018) 386 2111; Mthatha (047) 532 5234; Nelspruit (013) 755 1421;
Polokwane (015) 297 4055; Richards Bay (035) 753 1235; Rustenburg (014) 597 3655; Umtata (047) 532 5216; Windhoek +26 461 237 346.
IMIESA October 2012 81
HOUSING
BIGEN AFRICA WILL under take
management and design of all
civil engineering work required for
this project, which follows govern-
ment’s new approach to developing integrat-
ed human settlements by actively involving
private sector funders. This new approach is
set to be successful in addressing the nation-
al housing backlog, according to the par ties
involved. Despite the fact that 2.8 million
houses have been built since the advent of
democracy, South Africa has “hardly moved
in breaking the [housing] backlog at a rate of
just 10% per annum”, says Tokyo Sexwale,
Human Settlements Minister.
“This project is an encouraging and deci-
sive step in the right direction, and one
which addresses both the housing backlog
Bigen Africa has been appointed consulting engineers for a groundbreaking housing project in Scottsdene, Western Cape, by Calgro M3 Holdings.
Breaking new ground at Scottsdene housing project
INTGRATED SOLUTIONS
Above A schematic of the project
Below Construction work in progress on the retention pond
82 IMIESA October 2012
HOUSING
and the high levels of unemployment,” says
Deon Fabel, executive director: RSA South
at Bigen Africa. “By actively
involving private sector funders,
government will go a long way
towards achieving minister
Sexwale’s challenging target of
delivering 220 000 homes a
year between 2010 and 2014.”
The four-year integrated hous-
ing project in Scottsdene,
Kraaifontein, which was started
in January and is set to be com-
pleted in 2015, is a successful
example of building a truly inte-
grated community, and the first
of its kind to be implemented
in the Western Cape. “The idea
behind this development is not
to base housing just on reliance
on government funds, but also to
draw in the private sector to bal-
ance the forces of the housing
market,” says Patricia de Lille,
executive mayor of Cape Town.
The more than 2 000 families to be housed
in the 22 ha settlement will not only receive
water and electricity services, but will also
benefit from a network of tarred cycling
lanes, sidewalks and taxi embayments. A fur-
ther important benefit is the development of
infrastructure and transport services, which
not only the new residents but also the wider
community in the nor thern suburbs of Cape
Town can look forward to.
Complete infrastructure development is
being achieved through the public-private part-
nership between the City of Cape Town and
Calgro M3 Holdings.
“Experts from the full spectrum of prop-
erty development and construction are involved
in this project, and they have
the know-how to ensure qual-
ity lower-cost housing,” says
Willem Steenkamp, Western
Cape divisional director of Calgro
M3 Holdings.
The more than 2 000 hous-
ing units to be constructed will
consist of:
• Nearly 550 semi-detached,
double-storey Reconstruction
and Development Programme
(RDP) houses, also known as
Breaking New Ground units.
These are fully subsidised units.
• Approximately 350 commu-
nity residential units, which are
subsidised rental units owned
by the municipality. These will
consist of three- to four-storey
flats in blocks of 24 to 40 units.
• Social housing units, also con-
sisting of three to four-storey
The four-year integrated housing project... is a successful example of building a truly
integrated community
Above The Scottsdene project is scheduled for completion in 2015
Below The project will house more than 2 000 families with water and electricity services as well as tarred cycling lanes, sidewalks and taxi embayments
IMIESA October 2012 83
HOUSING
flats in blocks of 24 to 40 units. These are
rental units for households and par tially
subsidised.
• Approximately 200 affordable units for the
gap house market, which are freestanding,
single-storey homes offering a choice of
house plans.
The bulk and link services will be funded
by the City of Cape Town through the Urban
Settlements Development Grant (USDG) pro-
gramme and the required development con-
tributions by the developer. The internal
services for the subsidised units will also be
funded through the USDG programme. The
internal services for the non-subsidised units
will be the responsibility of the developer. A
new taxi transfer station at Scottsdene will
be built as par t of this project. At present
there is an informal taxi transfer station with
no supporting infrastructure. The new taxi
routes within the Scottsdene road network
will be incorporated into existing taxi routes
in the region, ensuring easy access for future
commuters. Proper taxi embayments along
these new routes will improve the safety of
public transport users.
The bulk infrastructure in the region will be
upgraded as par t of this housing project. The
bulk water line from the existing reservoirs,
which serve Scottsdene and Wallacedene,
will be upgraded, along with two sewage
pump stations and the current wastewa-
ter treatment works. Also included in the
project is the rehabilitation of an existing
retention pond.
Certain sections of Old Paarl Road, one
of the main roads serving the area, will be
upgraded as well. This includes the intersec-
tion between Old Paarl Road and Okavango
Road as well as a par t of Old Paarl Road
leading to Kruisfontein Road.
The project will, when finished, achieve the
goal of creating a better life for this com-
munity, showing that government and the
private sector can work together successfully
to better the lives of South Africans. “Bigen
Africa’s involvement in the implementation of
this project has, once again, convinced us of
the significant benefits derived from an inte-
grated approach to housing delivery, which is
aligned with Bigen Africa’s smarter business
approach of bringing together the key success
factors that will attract private sector funders
to public sector projects,” says Fabel.
“We remain committed to assisting govern-
ment to empower disadvantaged individuals
and support job creation and the initiatives
of the Expanded Public Works Programme by,
among others, facilitating accredited skills
training during the development and con-
struction of these projects.”
The bulk and link services will be funded by the City of Cape Town through the Urban Settlements Development Grant
Above Infrastructure development is being achieved the a public-private partnership
Right The transport services infrastructure at the project will benefit the residents as well as the communities in the surrounding areas
Bottom The bulk and link services will be funded by the City of Cape Town
84 IMIESA October 2012
HOUSING
Our engineering and architectural skills are world-class and we
have the people, systems and structures to make your project
world-class too.
Call us, or visit www.twp.co.za
TWP South Africa
T 0861 TWP TWP (SA) / +27 11 218 3000
Agile, Powerful, Prepared And Determined.
ISIA ORTNER, the architect who designed the Concrete
Manufacturers Association (CMA) house, says that placing the
plans into CAD software means that they can be easily modified
and will therefore have much broader appeal.
“There is no such thing as a totally standard house, even at the
subsidised housing level. Each development is different, if only mini-
mally, and CMA house plans can now be easily adapted to suit specific
developments.
“For example, CAD allows for easy orientation and makes future
extensions much easier. It also facilitates mirror imaging as well as
the adjustment of internal layouts,” comments Ortner.
Unlike most subsidy housing plans which are basic, the CMA house
plans are fully detailed, down to the last concrete block in fact.
Central to the whole CMA house concept is modular masonry, which
requires that each block and dimension is accounted for and avoids
the time-consuming and wasteful process of chopping blocks to fit;
if applied correctly, the process can generate substantial cost and
quality benefits.
“Preparing plans for proper modular masonry is time consuming
but the extra effort is definitely worthwhile. As most subsidy hous-
ing developments involve the construction of ±50 if not hundreds of
houses, the additional costs that detailed/modular masonry plans
entail are rendered insignificant through amortisation. Moreover, when
the savings that accrue from modular masonry are realised, the prepa-
ration of detailed plans becomes even more compelling.
“This poses the question as to why all subsidy housing develop-
ments are not built using modular masonry? The sad truth is that most
subsidy housing developers are too focused on securing architectural
plans at the lowest possible cost and, in so doing, missing out on
the cost-savings and improved quality aspects that detailed plans for
modular masonry entail.
House plans available on CADArchitectural plans for the 40 m² Concrete Manufacturers Association’s house are now available on CAD. CAD-based plans can be downloaded off the association’s website at no charge.
Unlike most subsidy housing plans which are basic, the CMA house plans are fully detailed
IMIESA October 2012 85
HOUSING
“This false economy results in plans that
cover the basics only and leaves building
contractors to proceed as they see fit. Houses
that take longer to build, shoddy quality control
and a high percentage of wasted materials are
often the consequence,” states Ortner.
“If developers appreciated the cost sav-
ings, let alone quality benefits of modular
masonry they would most certainly insist on
its widespread application,” says CMA direc-
tor, Hamish Laing. There are two sets of CMA
house plans; one for inland projects based on
the 290 x 140 x 90 mm solid concrete block
and the other for coastal projects based on the
390 x 140 x 190 mm hollow concrete block.
“Now that the plans are on CAD they can
be used as a template for almost any subsidy
housing project with minor modifications. And
because all the detailed leg-work has already
been done, very little additional work, if any,
would be required to adopt the plans for numer-
ous subsidy housing projects. Being available
at no charge, the only cost would be that of
the modifications, which should be minimal,”
maintains Laing.
IMIESA October 2012 87
HOUSING
R5 billion for housing projectsA joint venture between an estate agency, construction group and an investment company will see R5 billion steered annually into affordable housing projects.
HOUSING INFRASTRUCTURE
ACUTTS MOTLEKAR, a joint ven-
ture between the Acutts Property
Group and African investment hold-
ing company Motlekar Holdings, in
conjunction with construction company Group
Five as the building contractor and develop-
ment manager, aims to bring 18 000 housing
units to the market each year.
This conservatively translates into a R5 bil-
lion injection to the local economy with spin-
offs and job creation expected in land survey-
ing, architecture, building and construction,
material delivery and administration. Currently
the initiative has the capacity to deliver 100
houses a day, a mobilisation that will also
promote employment in the selling, mortgage
origination and property transfer value chain.
The properties would be geared towards
first-time buyers and middle-income earners,
typically households earning R13 500 to
R25 500 monthly to secure bonds between
R450 000 and R850 000. The new suburbs
would correspond with the government›s pro-
posed economic zone requirements for newly
establishing commercial centres.
“In areas where the government is driving
economic development, there is a critical
need for housing as investments come to
bear. The government is driving a need to
create housing, specifically in the spectrum
of the economically active population that
can purchase affordable housing – and this
initiative answers that demand,” says Acutts
chairman, Pat Acutt.
Old Mutual research into South Africa›s
affordable housing reflected the country has
14 million households, of which half were sub-
standard quality and included three million
formal dwellings without sanitation.
Government housing focused on households
earning below R3 500 a month, while private
sector development catered to the country›s
top 10% earners receiving more than R20 000
a month.
The research, covered in its A Glimpse into
the Development Impact Funds report by
Christine Glover and Leon Dykman, released
in March 2012, concluded that a quarter
of South African households had limited
opportunities to participate in the formal hous-
ing market. A 2006 survey reflected the coun-
try had a housing backlog of 660 000 units
in the middle and upper income tiers covered
by the Financial Services Charter (households
earning between R2 500 and R7 500), while
Statistics South Africa showed a decrease in
private sector housing delivery in line with a
market contraction and reduced bank lending.
Acutt states that the association between
Acutts and Motlekar will drive and transform
the South African affordable housing property
sector. The realty company Acutts Motlekar
was forged to market newly constructed hous-
es and apartments across South Africa on
behalf of the property developers. The joint
venture would manage the marketing, sales
Below Gearing up to accelerate South Africa’s delivery of affordable housing are the Acutts Motlekar directors (from left) Jonathan Acutt, Ken Fann, Michael Dewar and Pat Acutt
Each suburb would range between 600 and 5 000 houses to effect the delivery of quality houses to communities.
HOUSING
88 IMIESA October 2012
�������������� ����� �������������� ���������
�������������������������������������� �������������� ������ ��
������������������� �����������������������������������������������������������
����������������
����� �������������������� ����!����������"#����������$
"%����������� ��������� ��������� �������!������������������
�������������������� �������������� �������� ����������� ���
��������
#��!�������"��#��� ��������������������������� �������$%��&'����
%' ��� �����
����������
�� ���(������������� ��������� ����� ������������������������������������
�� ����������� ���������������
and mortgage origination processes for a
number of developments.
The initial project, Crystal Park, comprising
4 250 units, was launched in Benoni in May
this year with further projects in the pipeline.
Acutt adds that the next phase would be in
Midrand followed by the Western Cape and
East London.
Each suburb would range between 600
and 5 000 houses to effect the delivery of
quality houses to communities. The conse-
quential spin-off would involve the develop-
ment of schools, shopping centres, health
facilities and transpor t initiatives, which
Acutt confirms form part of the pre-planning
phases in terms of getting the development
areas approved.
Acutts Motlekar director and project manag-
er, Ken Fann, says the limit to the number of
properties built in each development depends
on the limitations for the neighbourhood.
Specifically, if the number of schools currently
available cannot handle 5 000 new homes,
then approvals will only be granted for the
capacity in that region.
Acutt highlights that the country’s finan-
cial institutions are committed to providing
mortgage finance to the affordable hous-
ing segment. The developments will have a
streamlined credit approval and bond calcula-
tion system on-site to assist potential buyers.
Homes within the schemes are colour-
graded to guide buyers with their choices in
line with their mortgage limits, and in the
initial phase, where homes have already been
built, transfer will be effective within six to
eight weeks. Acutt discusses that the banks
will typically grant bonds, but the joint venture
has also made arrangements with Old Mutual
via its Development Impact Funds specialist
financial services company, Mettle, and spe-
cialist home loan group, Integer.
The Old Mutual Development Impact Funds
South Africa specifically provides opportuni-
ties to invest in assets benefiting disadvan-
taged individuals and communities, while
generating commercially accepted returns on
investment. The underlying investments pri-
marily focus on stimulating the supply of
affordable housing and related infrastructure
and on increasing access to housing finance
for lower-income households.
Glover and Dyman’s report expects these
funds to facilitate the development of more
than 50 000 affordable housing opportunities
over the next decade. Finance will include
unsecured housing financial and mortgages,
areas where the Acutts Motlekar develop-
ments will focus.
The Integer product links the home loan to
a transaction account, debit card and credit
facility, while Mettle is a niche provider of
property finance focusing on the affordable
housing segment. Currently the company is
managing property that will lead to the deliv-
ery of 12 000 housing units in this market.
Acutt says the initiative has already seen
three new sales agents employed on-site at
Crystal Park, and he anticipates around 200
front-line estate agency positions will be cre-
ated as the developments rolled out nation-
ally. Further positions will be created in admin-
istrative levels, effectively promoting black
economic empowerment and transformation
within the real estate industry.
IMIESA October 2012 89
HOUSING
THIS IS BECAUSE the company plans
to introduce the advanced German-
engineered VAG intelligent pressure
management system to the local mar-
ket within the next two years.
Incledon national product manager for civils,
Kelly Wilson, highlights that the majority of
local authorities tend to increase investments
in water infrastructure in an attempt to raise
production capacities, rather than implement-
ing programmes to reduce water losses.
“Although investment in infrastructure
increases production capacities, it does not
permanently increase water production. This
means that the structure of the pipeline sys-
tem remains unchanged, placing enormous
pressure on the valves that regulate the flows
and pressures to maintain a constant supply
of potable water,” he explains. “If those valves
cannot be precisely controlled, high pressure
differences in the pipes can ultimately lead to
a collapse of the entire distribution system.”
Wilson notes that the most cost-effective
and environmentally friendly solution is to
reduce water losses in the distribution sys-
tems, by implementing the VAG intelligent
pressure management system. “The system-
atic reduction of pressure in the main water
supply system enables the water authori-
ties to reduce water loss to sustainable
economic levels.”
The VAG intelligent pressure management
system is comprised of a plunger valve, a
pressure sensor and a flow meter, which are
installed at the feed point of the supply area.
Wilson adds: “A programmable logic control-
ler (PLC) records, processes and archives
the measured sensor data needed to control
the plunger valve. Depending on the supply
system’s topography and consumption, the
valve is moved into the position that optimally
reduces the supply pressure, ultimately reduc-
ing the risk of new leaks occurring in the
supply system.”
Unlike butterfly or gate valves, which assume
only shut-off functions in the pipeline, VAG plung-
er valves are designed to fulfil special control
func-
t ions
in the water supply systems.
Due to the linear regulating characteristic,
these valves guarantee best cavitation behav-
iour with lowest friction-loss and can be used
for the delivery of potable water at tempera-
tures of up to 50˚C.
“The VAG plunger valve precisely regulates
pressure in a piping system and guarantees a
constant supply of water at any time or condi-
tion in coordination with both flow rate and net-
work pressure. It is available in nominal widths
from DN 150 up to DN 1 600 and in pressures
ranging from PN 10 to PN 40,” Wilson contin-
ues. “Another essential advantage of the VAG
plunger valve is its piston guiding, which is
made of welded bronze for added strength. The
piston-drive is connected by a stainless steel
shaft to a gearbox assembled to a connecting
flange on the outside of the body.”
Wilson points out that the VAG intelligent
pressure management system can be operated
Conveyance solutions supplier Incledon is able to assist municipalities in addressing the increasing challenge of water leakages in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner.
MUNICIPAL MANAGEMENT
Reducing water losses through pressure management
t
func-
t ions
i th t l t
ABOVE VAG Plunger Valve under test in VAG laboratory
RIGHT VAG Plunger Valve with multi-orifice cylinder
ADVERTORIAL
90 IMIESA October 2012
AREAS OF EXPERTISEAREAS OF EXPERTISE• Roads and Stormwater.
• Bulk water and sewage installations.• Water and Sewage reticulation networks.
• EPWP Projects.• Structures and Buildings (Facilities)
• Sport and Recreational Facilities.• Solid Waste Projects.
• Community Centres.• Multi-Disciplinary Project Management.• Labour Intensive Projects.
• Township Establishments and Housing Projects.• Railway Engineering Services.• Mining Infrastructure Projects.
OFFICES:
ALBERTON-Gauteng ERMELO-Mpumalanga NEWCASTLE-Kwa-Zulu Natal 118 Hennie Alberts Street 67 Fourie Street 34 Paterson StreetBrackenhurst: PO Box 145851 PO Box 1903 Newcastle Bracken Gardens 1452 Ermelo 2350 PO Box 27 Newcastle 2940 Tel: 011 868 2494 Tel: 017 819 1985 Tel: 034 315 3232 Fax: 011 868 1348 Fax: 017 819 4017 Fax: 086 669 7533E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]
www.lekwaconsulting.co.za
LEVEL 2 BBBEE PROCUREMENT CONTRIBUTER
Our historyLekwa Consulting Engineers was established in
2002 by two dedicated professional engineers,
Kibiti Ntshumaelo and Gert Smit, who seized
and developed an entrepreneurial opportunity
in the civil engineering industry. Our approach is
based on finding synergies with the public and
private sector stakeholders, including communi-
ties. We believe that through this partnership
approach, we could be instrumental in unlock-
ing skills development and job creation initia-
tives in South Africa. Our office network covers
the Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Free
State and North West provinces.
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS of dedication to service delivery Lekwa Consulting Engineers is proud to be celebrating its 10-year anniversary this October.
What 10 years means to usTen years in a sector that is constantly and rapid-
ly advancing is an achievement we are proud of,
and we have successfully established ourselves
in the civil engineering consultancy sector.
The company has grown progressively over
the past 10 years from being a small con-
sultancy to a fully fledged medium-scale firm.
Through our dedication and consistency, we
have strived to fulfil our mission and offer
our clients:
• value-added project management servic-
es according to internationally accepted
standards
• in-house exper tise that is broadened
through networking with specialist partners
and associates to provide conventional and
turnkey project solutions to our clients
• quality consulting engineering services
• a high level of technical expertise and pro-
fessionalism that has ensured excellence in
terms of our service delivery.
Our 10-year journey has not been an easy
one, but like all of life’s journeys it has been
a rewarding experience that has compelled the
company to grow. We continue our commit-
ment to offering our clients a professional and
unrivalled service.
We would like to thank all our clients, stake-
holders, suppliers and staff for supporting us
through all these years and look forward to
continuing the journey with you.
IMIESA October 2012 91
HOUSING
via the following three approaches, depending
on budgeting and engineering requirements:
• Time-based modulation: This method is
achieved by using a controller with an inter-
nal timer to change the set point of the
fixed outlet control. Control is affected in
time-bands in accordance with the demand
profiles. This mode is effective for areas with
stable demand profiles and head loss, and
where cost is an issue.
• Flow or demand-based modulation: More
water can be saved when the pressure fol-
lows the demand cycle for a specific period,
such as a day, week, month or year. A flow
meter in the main supply pipeline recognises
current demand for water in the network.
This value is sent to a computer, where an
evaluated curve for this specific network is
stored. This method is best-suited for areas
with varying conditions, head loss and fire
flow requirements. As demand is reduced
primarily at night, pressures are reduced
accordingly and, when demands peak, higher
pressures are applied.
• Remote node-based modulation: With this
mode, the pressure is measured directly in
the network at a critical point, via a signal
that is sent wirelessly to the control valve.
This type of control is the most proactive,
and is affected by connecting a remote pres-
sure sensor to the valve controller. A remote
sensor is usually placed at a critical point
in the district and the controller is set to
change pressure at the valve to consistently
maintain the desired pressure in the network
system. This mode also smooths system
pressure at the weaker extremities, thereby
reducing the number of new pipe breaks.
Despite its distinct advantages, Wilson does
admit that it will be a challenge for Incledon
to promote the VAG intelligent pressure man-
agement system to the local market due
to the fact that the initial capital outlay is
high. “We expect water boards to be initially
reluctant to convert to the VAG system, as
a large amount of capital and civil works
is required during the installation process.
Following this initial cost, however, the long-
term savings are substantial, due to the fact
that the need for continuous maintenance is
significantly reduced.”
Wilson points out that Incledon has been
involved in high-profile talks with a number
of water authorities, and he is confident of
the potential for the VAG intelligent pressure
management system in South Africa in the
short-term future.
“We are currently working on a number of
technical proposals for water bodies across
South Africa, and we have received over-
whelmingly positive feedback to date. I am
ABOVE VAG PRV installation in Sao Paulo, Brazil
BELOW VAG Plunger Valve with lever and weight
“The long-term savings are substantial, due to the fact that the need for continuous maintenance is signifi cantly reduced”
confident that the VAG intelligent pressure
management system will obtain strong market
share in the years to come, as the need for
saving our country’s most precious resource
becomes more urgent. With this in mind,
I anticipate that the first systems will be
installed and fully operational in South Africa
by 2013,” he maintains.
IMIESA October 2012 93
INTEGRATED INFRASTRUCTURE asset
management (IIAM) is concerned with
meeting a required level of service in the
most cost-effective manner for present
and future customers.
Key elements of IIAM include:
• identifying all assets
• understanding the impact of growth
• managing the risks associated with
asset failures
• continuous improvement in asset manage-
ment practises
• cost-effective management strategies for
life cycle asset management
• defined level of service and monitoring
performance
• life cycle approach
Infrastructure is the cornerstone of municipal
service delivery and is essential to achieve
the increased levels of economic growth
through job creation and the establishment of
well serviced areas conducive for economic
investment. Sound knowledge of the location,
characteristics, estimated lives, capacity and
utilisation, cost characteristics, risk exposure
and safety requirements of assets is required
to best manage them and make sustainable
improvements in service delivery.
If the engineer does not apply his mind in
the setting of expectations of the useful life of
assets, tariffs may increase beyond customer
affordability levels when assets lives are set
too low, or insufficient funding may be avail-
able for asset renewal where asset lives are
set too high.
Modern infrastructure asset registers (AR)
are no longer the inventory lists to suit
basic accounting criteria. Sophisticated asset
management systems allow for the compo-
nentised asset registers to not only satisfy
accounting requirements, but provide data on
aspects such as asset physical characteris-
tics, capacity, failure mode status, criticality
rating and remaining useful life. As such, an
Integrated infrastructure asset management is the discipline of managing infrastructure assets that underpin an economy, such as roads, water supply, wastewater, stormwater, power supply, flood management, recreational and other assets.
Integrated infrastructure asset management and asset registering
asset register should be a common and accu-
rate dataset used to inform decision-making
in the areas of services planning, risks
assessments, asset life cycle planning and
investment prioritisation. The introduction of
the generally recognised accounting practice
(GRAP) standards has not only highlighted
the value of the specialist asset knowledge
of engineers, but placed the municipal engi-
neer in a position to negotiate funding for the
establishment of asset registers and associ-
ated asset management planning instruments
way beyond accounting compliance needs.
The use of a system that allows the capturing
of asset data and also provides outputs show-
ing asset performance and therefore funding
requirements, goes a long way to providing a
long-term integrated asset planning platform
for both accountants and engineers.
Asset information is extracted and collected
from whatever sources of data that are avail-
able, preferably electronic but if needs be,
from physical plans. In doing this, the basic
asset inventory is established using available
data. IMQS has introduced the Big 6 approach,
whereby it focuses on the six core civil engi-
neering services of water, sewer, roads, prop-
erty and buildings, stormwater and electricity.
It provides the system elements to effectively
capture and track all the details required to
populate an integrated asset inventory. In
doing so, the system effectively links the detail
in the underlying (Big 6) technical systems to
a comprehensive and abstracted integrated
asset register. The system ensures that the
final infrastructure inventory can be maintained
and updated utilising the tools within the inte-
grated asset management suite of products.
Depending on the other systems deployed,
the AR may well also be linked to other
‘feeder’ systems. These systems may include:
hydraulic modelling and master planning,
maintenance, GIS and ERP systems – all of
which will be drawn on either manually or in
an integrated manner to further populate the
IIAM system.
Increased levels of economic growth through
job creation and improved service delivery
can only be achieved through the provision
of well-managed infrastructure. To that end,
IMQS has designed and built a fully integrated
geo-referenced asset management solution
that not only supports improved service deliv-
ery, but also supports the asset manage-
ment practice and reporting requirements of
National Treasury allowing local authorities
to configure and populate the system to be
GRAP compliant.
ASSET MANAGEMENT
uppe
mar
keti
ng A
0778
2
INFR SET
PAVING • RETAINING WALLS • ROOF TILES
ROSSWAY (MIDRAND) – TEL: +27 (0)12 652 0000
KWAZULU NATAL (EFFINGHAM) –
TEL: +27 (0)31 569 6900
Aveng Manufacturing Infraset produces a diverse range of precast concrete products to world-class quality standards and actively contributes to SADC infrastructure development. Our range includes concrete pipes, culverts, manholes, special precast products, various type of pre-stressed railway sleepers, turnouts, maintenance-free railway electrification masts and poles, paving blocks, retaining wall systems and roof tiles.
Aveng Manufacturing Infraset’s admired heritage is founded on innovation, technical and service excellence.
Aveng Manufacturing Infraset
Steeldale House
TEL: +27 (0)11 876 5500
FAX: +27 (0)11 872 1713
EMAIL: [email protected]
www.infraset.com
PIPES • CULVERTS • MANHOLES:
GAUTENG – TEL: +27 (0)11 876 5100
CAPE TOWN – TEL: +27 (0)21 908 1156
KWAZULU NATAL (PIETERMARITZBURG) –
TEL: +27 (0)33 387 2236
RAILWAY SLEEPERS • POLES & MASTS
NATIONAL – TEL: +27 (0)11 813 2340
INTERNATIONAL BRANCHES
SWAZILAND – TEL: +2682 518 4236 | ZAMBIA – TEL: +260 21 131 1838
BUILDING DURABLE INFRASTRUCTURE WITH PRECAST CONCRETE PRODUCTS
ASSET MANAGEMENT
IMIESA October 2012 95
With a solid track record spanning over half a century, GIBB has established itself as a partner of choice. Backed by a Level 2 BBBEE rating, GIBB provides engineering solutions to a diverse range of markets across the African continent.
[email protected] | www.gibb.co.za | +27 11 519 4600
HYDROMACE XCI is a ready-to-use
data logging platform to facilitate
remote monitoring of inputs from
flumes and weirs, water quality sen-
sors and rainfall gauges, drinking water flows
(detecting leakages) and weather stations.
With a fully integrated data logger, solar regu-
lator and battery housed in one weatherproof
enclosure (IP65 rating), the HydroMace XCi is
built to withstand the harshest environments.
The system includes data logger, battery, LCD
display and solar panel kit for remote loca-
tions. In addition, with five available card inter-
faces, the user can install any combination
to tailor the HydroMace to exact monitoring
requirements. With the WebbComm card, data
can be accessed 24/7 from the Mace website.
The unit allows plug and play of just about
any sensor, such as multi-parameter water
quality probes; rain gauges; echo-flo ultrasonic
depth/level sensors; pH, DO and EC water
quality sensors; electromagnetic insert flow
sensors; water samplers and weather sensors.
The HydroMace is designed and manufactured
by Australian company Measuring & Control
Remote environmental monitoring system
Equipment (MACE), which has 40 years’ expe-
rience in water monitoring solutions. These
products are marketed in South Africa by
Impact Measurement Systems.
aerobic compartments of the BNR reactor
tanks. This first biogas-to-energy plant in
South Africa, which will sustainably use a
waste stream that is produced during the
treatment of domestic effluent, is currently
being commissioned.
Zitholele is proud to have successfully
undertaken this project, which will contribute
to preserving the country’s natural resources.
The company is a Level 3 BBBEE contributor,
operating within a quality management sys-
tem, and is a member of Consulting Engineers
South Africa.
A leading South African water utility has embarked on a multibillion rand capital investment programme to upgrade, expand and modernise its wastewater treatment facilities. The introduction of infrastructure, which contributes to the sustainable use of waste by-products, has the added benefits of significantly reduced long-term operating costs for the utility.
ZITHOLELE CONSULTING, a specialist
firm of consulting engineers and envi-
ronmentalists in the field of water and
wastewater engineering, was
appointed by a leading South
African water utility to provide
professional services for the
management, design and com-
missioning of a “biogas-to-
energy” installation. Zitholele
investigated and designed a
complete system to harvest
the methane gas (biogas) that
is produced from the biological
nutrient removal (BNR) process
in the utility’s wastewater (sew-
age) treatment facility, and to
convert this waste stream into clean, usable
energy. This process can reduce the plant’s
dependence on the local electricity grid, lower
the plant’s operating costs, as well as intro-
duce a sustainable source of energy for the
operation of the treatment plant. The project
was spearheaded by Dr Sven Sotemann, who
is a senior process engineer at Zitholele.
Two waste streams, apart from treated efflu-
ent, are typically generated following waste-
water treatment processes, namely sludge
(primary and waste activated) and biogas. The
biogas, produced from anaerobic sludge diges-
tion, is the key input and fuel to this technol-
ogy. High performance mesophilic anaerobic
digestion, including sludge pre-thickening, as
well as mixed and heated anaerobic digestion,
enhance the biogas production.
The key features of the biogas-to-energy pro-
ject include:
• A biological sludge cell lysis (cell destruc-
tion) installation on the thickened waste
activated sludge (WAS) stream to maximise
methane production from the WAS constitu-
ent of the combined sludge.
PROFILE
Biogas-to-energy at sewage treatment plants
• Cleaning of the biogas to adequately condi-
tion it for use in co-generation engines or
turbines. This is a critical step that ensures
reliable operation and enhances
longevity of the co-generation
equipment.
• Generation of electrical
power by means of co-gener-
ation methane gas engines
or turbines.
• Optimising the plant by reus-
ing the waste heat generated
from the equipment cooling
and exhaust circuits, to heat
the anaerobic digesters.
On average, a 200 Mℓ/d acti-
vated sludge treatment plant
can generate approximately 3 MW of electrical
power, which is equivalent to approximately
50% of the total electrical consumption of
the treatment plant. BNR processes use rela-
tively less electrical power compared to other
conventional activated sludge treatment pro-
cesses. The electrical power usage for waste-
water treatment, in general,
remains high due to the
requirement for mechani-
cal aeration of the
ZITHOLELE CONSULTING
p pthe treatment plant. BNR processes use rela
t
w
p p
tively less electrical power compared to other
conventional activated sludge treatment pro-
cesses. The electrical power usage for waste-
water treatment, in general,
remains high due to the
requirement for mechani-
cal aeration of the
t
c
c
w
c
IMIESA October 2012 97
Dr Sven Sotemann, senior process engineer at Zitholele Consulting
T (011) 207 2060E [email protected] www.zitholele.co.za
CESA AON ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2012
IMIESA October 2012 99
Infrastructure Development Structural Engineering Electrical Engineering Mechanical Engineering Civil Engineering Project Management Town Planning
HEAD OFFICE: BLOCK C - Menlyn Corporate Park C/O Garsfontein & Corobay Ave. MENLYN - PRETORIA Tel: +27 (0) 12 940 1111 FAX: +27 (0) 86 743 3100
E- www.bvigroup.co.za
MDP
Offices: Tshwane, Polokwane, Cape Town, Upington, Springbok, Durban, Port Elizabeth,
Mozambique,Namibia, Angola, DRC
THE FACT THAT 3S Media won this
award is an acknowledgement of the
high-quality information the company
provides through its magazines and
other platforms to the infrastructure sector.
3S Media showcases various projects that
CESA members are involved in and thus aids
the organisation in its goals.
3S Media’s relevant products are:• IMIESA magazine – the official publication
of the Institute of Municipal Engineering
of Southern Africa which deals with
infrastructure development, maintenance and
service delivery.
• Water & Sanitation Africa magazine – the
official magazine of the Water Institute of
Southern Africa which focuses on the entire
spectrum of water-related issues.
• RéSource magazine – promotes integrated
resource management, with a special interest
in waste management and cleaner production.
The www.infrastructurene.ws website and
its newsletters bring together the communi-
ties from the three magazines – IMIESA,
Water&Sanitation Africa and RéSource. It is
a leading news hub, with in-depth articles,
videos and podcasts, an events calendar and
full social media functionality.
Publisher of the yearIn recognition of the role the media plays in the consulting engineering industry, 3S Media was awarded Publisher of the Year: Trade Publications, at the CESA Aon Engineering Excellence Awards 2012.
WINNER • Publisher of the Year • 3S MEDIA
3S Media publisher and MD, Elizabeth Shorten, receives the Publisher of the Year: Trade Publications, from CESA president, Naren Bhojaram
CESA AON ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2012
100 IMIESA October 2012
THE R710 MILLION upgrade of the
Koeberg Interchange was completed
in July 2011 after a 42-month con-
struction period. The project alleviates
Upgrading of the Koeberg InterchangeWINNER • Projects valued in excess of R250 million • HHO AFRICA
congestion on one of Cape Town’s busiest
interchanges. It required construction of two
new directional ramps at a third level over
the old interchange, while maintaining the
existing traffic flow of 200 000 vehicles per
day. A ‘just-in-time’ design, use of precast
elements, and excellent cooperation between
the client, engineer, contractor and service
authorities overcame several challenges and
ensured the completion of the project ahead
of the scheduled contract completion date and
within budget.
Innovative design, approval and tender pro-
cesses were adapted to achieve the extremely
tight time constraints imposed by the need to
open Ramp A before June 2010. The design
aimed at the most effective use of concrete
beams to reduce interference with the heavy
daily traffic through the interchange. Innovative
construction techniques reduced traffic devia-
tions to a minimum.
Enormous 40 m beams were precast off-
site and transported to the project site using
a purpose-built beam carrier. They were also
launched in the quickest and most efficient way
using cranes.
IMIESA October 2012 101
Upgrading of the Ben Schoeman FreewayCOMMENDATION • Projects valued in excess of R250 million • BKS
THE BEN SCHOEMAN Freeway, link-
ing Johannesburg and Pretoria, is
one of the oldest and busiest free-
ways in the country. Extensive traf-
fic congestion occurs on the freeway – par-
ticularly at the old Allandale Interchange. BKS
has been appointed for the detailed assess-
ment, preliminary and detailed design, and
construction monitoring of the capacity
upgrading and rehabilitation of the freeway
and associated interchanges, as par t of the
Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project. The
project consists of 21 km of the N1 freeway
between the Buccleuch Interchange and the
Brakfontein Interchange. The five access
interchanges on the project are the Allandale,
New Road, Olifantsfontein, Samrand and Old
Johannesburg Road interchanges.
The upgrading of the Ben Schoeman Freeway makes use of ‘fit-for-purpose’ designs and construction methods
CESA AON ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2012
www.cree.com/lighting
Save 30 - 80% energy
way
IMIESA October 2012 103
Knight PiésoldC O N S U L T I N G
www. .comknightpiesold
Johannesburg+27 11 806 7111
Pretoria+27 12 991 0557
Durban+27 31 276 4660
Polokwane+27 15 291 2048
Nelspruit+27 13 752 3617
Cape Town+27 21 555 0400
EXPERTISE:WaterTransportaEnvironmental ServicesMiningGeotechnicalHydro-geological inves gaStructural EngineeringGIS Services
Phalaborwa+27 15 781 0839
engineering and environmental consultants
The Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project Package E1
ENTRY • Projects valued in excess of R250 million • KAS JOINT VENTURE
THIS PACKAGE OF the Gauteng
Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP)
is located south of Johannesburg
and included the construction of a
405 m incrementally launched bridge, reloca-
tion of services, widening of existing freeway
lanes and bridges, and interchange upgrades
under very strenuous traffic conditions. The
planning, design and construction was exe-
cuted professionally – showcasing the KAS
joint venture’s commitment to providing safer
infrastructure, environmental sustainability and
engineering excellence. The GFIP Package 1 is
part of the network that will stimulate develop-
ment and growth while improving traffic flows
in Gauteng.
*The KAS joint venture comprises Knight
Piésold Consulting, Arcus Gibb and PD Naidoo
& Associates
An incrementally launched bridge
CESA AON ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2012
104 IMIESA October 2012
oror
CESA AON ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2012
The safety rehabilitation of Klein Maricopoort Dam
WINNER • Projects valued between R50 million and R250 million • BKS
SERVICES FOR THIS project included
the design and rehabilitation works
for the earth fill embankment, and
the design and construction of a new
central trough spillway. These elements show-
cased the design team’s ingenuity in success-
fully addressing numerous challenges on this
project. BKS successfully completed the pro-
ject in February 2012. The Klein Maricopoort
Dam is 7 km east of Zeerust in the North West
province. The dam now complies with dam
safety legislation and the increased spillway
capacity and refurbished earth fill embank-
ment have significantly lowered the risk of dam
failure if major flooding occurs in the area.
Members of the professional team receive their award from CESA president, Naren Bhojoram (far right)
IMIESA October 2012 105
The Northern WWTW sludge drying bed
COMMENDATION • Projects valued between R50 million and R250 million • JW WASTEWATER PARTNERSHIP: JOINT VENTURE
AS PART OF Johannesburg Water’s
sludge treatment and dispos-
al plan for compliance with the
national sludge guidelines, the
Johannesburg Water Wastewater Partnership
was commissioned to undertake the planning,
design, and assistance with procurement and
construction monitoring of a sludge bed at
the Northern Wastewater Treatment Works
(WWTW). Knight Piésold was the lead consult-
ant on the project which was characterised by
a significant earth platform and use of poly-
mer fibre reinforcement in an extensive con-
crete slab. The sludge treatment plan included
solar drying to enable composing without a
bulking agent to produce an end-product suit-
able for disposal to the agriculture industry.
*The JW Wastewater Par tnership com-
prises Knight Piésold Consulting, Zitholele
Consulting, PD Naidoo and Associates and
the WSP Group
An aerial view of the expansive sludge drying bed
Meulwater Water Treatment Works
WINNER • Projects valued at less than R50 million • AURECON
THIS PROJECT WAS carried out for
the Drakenstein Municipality in Paarl.
The 8 Mℓ/d Meulwater Waste Water
Treatment (WTW) was commissioned
in May 2012. “The design team overcame
significant challenges in providing a solution for
the water needs of the Drakenstein Municipality
in an extremely sensitive environmental area,”
says Brendon Theunissen, water and waste-
water engineer and project leader for the
Meulwater project. The WTW treats water from
the Nantes and Bethel dams, sited on the Paarl
Mountain, and is located on the boundary of the
beautiful Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve.
“Due to its location, the plant was designed
with careful attention to ensuring that it fits
appropriately into this environment, while
continuing the heritage of water supply and
treatment on Paarl Mountain,” comments
Theunissen. The involvement of professionals
such as a heritage specialist, botanist, land-
scaper and an architect added to the team of
treatment specialists and engineers, resulted
in a special product that will hopefully prove to
be a heritage for the community served by the
Drakenstein Municipality.
An external view of the Meulwater WTW
CESA AON ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2012
106 IMIESA October 2012
SOUTH AFRICA’S PREFERRED CONSULTING ENGINEERING COMPANY
SNA provides engineering excellence in Planning, Design, Project Management
art technology, teamwork
CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS (PTY) LTD
Tel: (012) 842 0000 | Fax: (012) 803 4429 | [email protected] | www.sna.co.za
SERVICES INCLUDE:
Design of Major Road Networks Civil Engineering Township Services
Bridge and Structural Design in Concrete and Steel
Railway Engineering Airport Runways
CESA AON ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2012
The Brakspruit Bridge
COMMENDATION • Projects valued at less than R50 million • GOBA
THE BRAKSPRUIT BRIDGE was exten-
sively damaged following a train
derailment. A temporary structure,
using material immediately available
to Transnet Freight Rail, was designed and
The construction method allowed for the majority of the work to be carried out while the line was operational
constructed in just five weeks – returning the
line to service. An innovative side-launched
scheme for a replacement bridge was devel-
oped by Goba to take advantage of a planned
maintenance occupation of the line.
This scheme required moving a new con-
crete deck 100 m long and weighing 1 700 t
into position on the existing substructure.
The project was completed on time and
within budget.
IMIESA October 2012 107
The Luanda Waterfront Development
WINNER • Best International Project • VELA VKE (PART OF THE SMEC GROUP)
THE BAIA DE LUANDA Project is
located along the Bay of Luanda on a
peninsula as the Ilha. Vela VKE was
appointed as lead consultant at pro-
ject inception stage during 2003. Despite sev-
eral obstacles along the way, the excellence
with which the consulting firm coordinated the
project culminated in a high quality product
that defined new parameters in the Angolan
construction industry. The site-based design
team demonstrated proactiveness, ability and
commitment while operating under challeng-
ing circumstances. The project enhanced the
lives of the local community and returned a
sense of pride in the city.
The first stage of the project consisted of
the public works, which was split into two con-
tracts namely the civil and marine contracts.
In order to create the least disruption to
traffic and not worsen the parking problems,
this stage was divided into three phases: A,
B and C.
The project is expected to continue over
several years as future stages commence.
These include the construction of hotels as
well as commercial and residential elements.
Prior to 2003, war-damaged infrastructure
and socio-economic problems were hugely
debilitating for the country. Vela VKE, together
with Pintoroux Architects, was instrumental
in initiating projects following the end of the
war that could contribute towards returning
Above The project under construction
Below CESA president, Naren Bhojoram with the professional team
CESA AON ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2012
the country to its former glory. The Baia de
Luanda was the most ambitious and high-
est profile project that could achieve that.
The project is perhaps the most prominent
project in the city due to the fact that it
attracted investors back into the city. At the
time the project was initiated, it appeared
as though the city would suffer the same
fate as so many others as a result of the
migration of investors but the project secured
financial backing.
When complete, the Baia de Luanda project
will impact the daily lives of the people of
Luanda. Recreational areas include children’s
play parks, adult training equipment, kiosks,
restaurants, a cycle corridor and spaces
for keen runners. Trees, plants and grass
as well as urban furniture enhance the
landscaped areas and bring new life to the
city’s water front.
Another distinguishing fact about the pro-
ject from others in Angola is that no money
could be obtained from the government to
upgrade the infrastructure.
WATER AND WASTEWATER
108 IMIESA October 2012
MEYERTON
Fax: 016 362 3608
0861STRUCT (787828)
www.structa.co.za
Specialists
in the
manufacturing
of domestic
and industrial
water storage
WaterStorage
The Ubombo Sugar Mill
COMMENDATION • Best International Project • BOSCH PROJECTS
The R1.5 billion expansion of the Ubombo Sugar Mill will boost productivity from 220 000 tpa to 300 000 tpa
AS ONE OF THE largest projects undertaken to date
by Bosch Projects, the brownfield expansion of the
Ubombo Sugar Mill in Swaziland included a number of
firsts for the company, as well as for Illovo Sugar.
The installation of a Bosch Projects’ chainless diffuser was the
first installed in Africa.
The project also included the installation of a boiler and steam
turbine for the generation of electricity from biogas for internal
consumption and export into the Swaziland national grid.
The project also included the upgrading of existing processing
equipment as well as the procurement and installation of a sub-
stantial amount of new equipment to achieve planned increase in
sugar production.
The Ubombo 410 to 500TCH factory expansion was an extreme-
ly large and complex project in scope which required a visionary
and multi-faceted approach to tackle the technical, logistical and
construction features inherent in a venture of this nature. What
makes the project all the more remarkable is that it was under-
taken in a foreign country with equipment and manpower sourced
from across the globe.
MANUFACTURER & SUPPLIER OF MASTS, POLES & TOWERS 1
SECTION
028SECTION
028EXP
LeBlanc CTH Lighting Structures (Pty) LtdReg. No. 2005/002613/07
18 Johnson Rd, Pretoriastad, Nigel PO Box 1592, Nigel, 1490, South AfricaTel: +27 (0)11 814-1404 Fax: +27 (0)11 814-1444email: [email protected] site: www.leblancgroup.com, www.lightingstructures.edx.co.za
LeBLANC CIH Lighting Structures is a leading supplier ofMasts, Towers and associated equipment for High Mast Lightingin South Africa and other African Countries and has been inoperation since 1976.
The company designs, fabricates and erects Monople Type Mastsand Towers in seven basic product ranges
• Railow Masts• Midhinge Masts• Hydro Masts• Internal and External Access Masts• Monopole Transmission Masts• Electricity transmission Masts• Street Lighting Poles
Manufacturing FacilityThe Facility comprises of a 3500 square meter covered factorywith extensive loading facilities and stacking space as well as 500square meters of office space.The faciluty is well equiped with extensive plant and machinery forthe handling and processing of steel plate as well as all othersteel work required for the production of Monopole typestructures.The production facility employs some fifty persons includingqualified boiler makers, coded welders and machine operators.
QualityThe production facility is EN ISO 9001:2008 certified by DekraInternational
EngineeringAll monopoles and structures fabricated by the company aredesigned by a professional structural engineer, and detailing forfabrication is done by our own experienced staff, making use ofthe latest CAD drawing facilities
Track RecordLighting Structures has designed and fabricated Masts fornumerous customers in the Ligthting and Electrical sectors bothin South Africa as well as many other countries in Africa.
Services• Design and fabrication of masts from a standard range or
special design to suit client specifications• Erection of Masts• Design and construction of Mast foundation• Inspection and maintenance of existing Masts and foundations• Turnkey capabilities for full site build• Technical support and as built documentation
LIGHTING STRUCTURES
JascoLeBlanc Jasco Lighting Structures (pty)ltdLLeBLANC Jasco Lighting Structures.co.za
87 310 1000 86 699 6999
LIGHTING STRUCTURESLIGHTING STRUCTURES
(0)87 310 1000 (0)86 699 6999 (0)87 310 1000 (0)86 699 6999
Lighting StructuresLeBLANC Jasco Lighting Structures
110 IMIESA OCTOBER 2012
WATER AND WASTEWATER
IMIESA October 2012 111
GIS
TGIS is ISO certifi edTotal Geo-spatial Information Solutions has been awarded ISO 9001:2008 cer tification by PWC.
THIS IS an exciting milestone in
the history of Total Geo-spatial
Information Solutions (TGIS), which
stands proud as one of the very few
GIS, software and management information
systems companies in South Africa to pos-
ses this valued certification. Lance Nel, MD
of TGIS, delivered a heartfelt address to the
auditors from PWC and to all the staff:
“It is with much jubilation that I now
announce TGIS is ISO 9001: 2008 certified.
It is a clear indication of the commitment of
the management and staff of TGIS to deliver-
ing the highest quality products and services.”
Adri du Plessis, senior manager: Certification
and Accreditation for PWC, remarked upon
presentation of the certificate that “TGIS has
performed extremely well during the various
stages of the process towards accredita-
tion.” Du Plessis proceeded to deliver a well-
deserved round of praise for all the effort
that was put in. Special mention was made of
the fact that TGIS had zero non-conformances
of any kind, which is extremely rare for any
company. Fair warning for future complacency
was given and that only after the climax of
achieving certification does the real work
begin, to ensure that processes are continu-
ally improved.
Ciska Engelbrecht, director of Corporate
Services at TGIS, who oversaw the ISO certifi-
cation process, attribut-
ed much of the success
to the internal use, of the
Integrated Management
Information System
(IMIS), which is TGIS’s
flagship product.
After the formalities of the handover ceremo-
ny, the directors of TGIS proceeded to thank
each staff member individually for all the
effort they placed to achieve ISO certification
as well as over the years in maintaining indus-
try leading solutions. IMIS is a system that
integrates document management, land data
via a GIS, with business functions such as
HR and communications management; these
core modules can be
supplemented with
a myriad of techni-
cal functions such
as project manage-
ment, infrastructure
management, and town and building manage-
ment functions. The system is designed to be
a one-stop shop for most software needs of
any organisation, but especially the municipal
market which has complex technical require-
ments. IMIS is a process-driven system, which
allows TGIS to digitise all processes and then
align them to ISO standards. TGIS believes
TOP Lance Nel proudly shows the staff the certificate
ABOVE Adri from PWC and Lance Nel receiving the certificate
that the use of IMIS will enable other organisa-
tions to take great strides to achieve their own
ISO compliance.
The ISO certification is testament to the
effort to ensure that only the best products
and services are produced, keeping clients
fully satisfied. ISO is an ongoing process of
improvement. The management and staff
of TGIS will endeavour to continue to
improve their processes, which will in
turn increase the quality of delivery to their
valued clients.
The system is designed to be a one-stop shop for most software needs
112 IMIESA October 2012
WASTE MANAGEMENT
The way forward onwaste management
The negative impact of waste on the environment and on people’s health is of ongoing concern. Nick Mannie, Aurecon technical director – Waste
POOR WASTE MANAGEMENT places
significant and, at times, overwhelm-
ing pressure on the capability of
municipalities to manage waste. To
address this issue, waste management strate-
gies that are advanced, yet easy to implement
and have measurable outcomes, are required.
Gauteng’s Merafong City Local Municipality
(MCLM) has taken bold steps towards ensuring
sustainable waste management solutions and
lessons that can be shared from these actions.
Identifying low-hanging fruitsIn 2011, the MCLM was faced with the task
of disposing over 150 000 t of waste each
year, collected from 36 000 households and
businesses. After assessing the situation,
Aurecon identified numerous problems, in
many cases due solely to the use of plastic
bags for the storing and disposing of waste.
Key issues were:
• Frequent spillages from torn or open bags
resulted in unhygienic conditions, such as
exposure to noxious streams of waste, flies
and unpleasant odours.
• Workers risked sprains from handling heavy
bags and cuts from sharp objects in bags.
• The collection process was time consum-
ing as workers needed to pick up individual
bags, one at a time.
• The bags were unsightly and frequently the
source of windblown litter on residential
streets. This was environmentally poor prac-
tice as the bags themselves introduced a
secondary waste problem.
A simple solutionTo address the problem quickly and efficiently,
Aurecon recommended a switch to 240 ℓ trol-
ley (‘wheelie’) bins to replace the use of
plastic bags.
Sometimes, when faced with massive chal-
lenges, it is best practice to identify easy
actions that deliver big gains. We found this to
be true of the MCLM.
Apart from solving the problems listed above,
the municipality benefitted through a significant
reduction in health and safety costs among
employees, as well as the creation of revenue
from selling additional wheelie bins to mem-
bers of the community.
Discontinuing the use of plastic bags also
raised awareness among residents of the
need for responsible waste management. In
addition, reducing the quantity of plastics in the
landfill results in a reduced carbon footprint,
demonstrating the municipality’s commitment
to the National Waste Management Strategy
(2011) of South Africa.
Optimisation of waste collection service deliveryA major problem many local municipalities face
is the issue of service delivery.
The MCLM was challenged by one service
area in particular – that of its waste collection
process. Once the municipality had addressed
the immediate challenge of replacing plastic
bags with waste collection bins, it needed to
arrive at a holistic solution to its broader waste
collection challenges.
In dire need of a tool to optimise the alloca-
tion of resources and improve efficiency, the
municipality engaged Aurecon to investigate
and develop a management system for the
improved collection of waste in the local
municipality area.
Aurecon’s team, made up of myself, Kobie
Pretorius (project manager), and Hentie Viviers
(geographic information system (GIS) and
data management professional), undertook
IMIESA October 2012 113
WASTE MANAGEMENT
to completely review the municipality’s waste
management procedures and implement a
sustainable scheme with substantial benefits
for all the stakeholders.
A holistic solution The solution lay in an effective information
system that could measure service delivery at
any given time. The new collection system was
based on customised GIS modelling according
to the MCLM’s specific requirements.
The system was designed to take into
account various factors such as the geographi-
cal area (location, popu-
lation size and distance
to the landfill or transfer
station), future develop-
ments in the city, poten-
tial population growth,
the timing and frequency of waste collection
and, of course, the client’s resource allocation.
The GIS modelling for optimal route plan-
ning is a considerable improvement on the
municipality’s existing approach, which had
been to randomly designate certain days for
collecting waste in certain areas. With this
newly developed system, Aurecon was able to
assess factors such as risk areas, inefficien-
cies and costs that were incurred daily during
the waste collection process and report back
to the MCLM on its findings with innovative and
practical recommendations.
The latest information on all the solid waste
sites and services within the jurisdiction of
the municipality was also incorporated into a
database, allowing for the comprehensive com-
pilation of best waste management practices.
The system we developed can now govern
waste collection in order to make it optimal,
through the calculation of factors like waste
generation per suburb and the number of the
rubbish trucks required.
Aurecon’s GIS mapping and database also
assisted the municipality strategically in terms
of long-term planning to ensure that resourc-
es, equipment and
personnel will be
efficiently utilised.
Some of the wide-
ranging benefits of
the system’s opti-
mised route planning were:
• the MCLM’s collection backlog was eradicated
• the risk of drivers missing areas or collection
points was eliminated
• travelling distances were lowered, reduc-
ing chances of truck breakdowns and sig-
nificantly reducing fuel costs, which in turn
effectively lessens the MCLM’s overall car-
bon footprint
• productivity improved: the revised time
scheduling demonstrated that the waste col-
lection service could be maximised by imple-
menting an additional shift per day. The use
of equipment and personnel more efficiently
neutralised the amount of overtime taken
by municipal workers and the new system
motivated them by allowing them to leave
work early if they had completed their routing
for the shift
• customer satisfaction improved with the
well-organised collection of waste, reflect-
ing in minimised complaints from the
36 000 residents
• the MCLM is now better equipped to identify
potential problems in advance and take time-
ly preventative measures by re-optimising
the routes.
Lessons learnt When reviewing the way in which the MCLM
handled its waste collection challenges, two
important lessons emerge:
• Making small, simple changes (such as
replacing plastic bags with bins) all the way
through to a complete redesign of the cur-
rent working system (as with a new waste
collection route planning system) all have
a place in the adoption of a holistic view of
waste management.
• Instead of incorporating waste management
only as a means of cleaning up a messy and
unhygienic situation, it is far smarter and
more cost-effective to avoid the situation by
integrating an effective waste management
plan from the start.
The new collection system was based on customised GIS modelling
To subscribe and/or advertise please call +27 11 233 2600 or visit www.twa.co.zacribe and/or advertise please call +27 11 233 2600 or visit www.twa.co.za
• 853 million people • 6.4% GDP growth in 2012, and more beyond
AFRICA RISINGAFRICA RISING
O
NG IN
NCE T
ECHN
RANSPORT
ENE
NS IN
FRAST
RUCTURE
AGRICULT
URE OIL
COMM
GY RES
EARCH
MIN
ING IN
DUST
Y TOURIS
M SCI
ENCE
TEC
HNOLOGY
CTURE
FIN
ANCE T
RANSPORT
ENER
GY T
OIL
COMMUNIC
ATIONS
INFR
ASTRUCT
URE F
CH M
ININ
G INDUST
RY AGRIC
ULTURE
OIL
COMMU
ISM
SCIEN
CE TE
CHNOLO
GY RES
EARCH
MIN
ING I
NDU
FINANCE
TRANSP
ORT E
NERGY T
OU
ECHNO
COMMUNIC
ATIONS
INFR
ASTRUCT
URE
TEN
E
ING IINN
DDUUSTRY A
GRICULT
URE O
IL C
OMMUNICATIO
NS IN
FRAST
RUCT
ENCE
TEC
HNOLOGY R
ESEA
RCHMIN
I
COM
RANSPORT
ENER
GY TOURIS
M SCI
ENCE
TEC
HNOLOGY R
ESEA
RCH M
ININ
G INDU
ONS IN
FRAST
RUCTURE
FIN
ANC
RY AGRIC
ULTURE
OIL
COMMUNIC
OLOGY R
ESEA
RCH M
ININ
G INDUST
RY
ENER
GY TOURIS
M SC
IENCE
TEC
HN
URE F
INANCE
TRANS
COMMUNIC
ATIO
NDUSTRY A
G
OGY R
RG
AFRICA RISING
ENER TU
R CO INDU
CHNNOLO
G
ENER
GU
LEADING PRODUCT MANUFACTURERS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS doing business in Africa read and advertise in Transport World Africa - regularly. Do you? To gain an understanding of this market, and more importantly, get your product to market, subscribe to Transport World Africa. We will provide you with the business intelligence needed for your company to operate profitably in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Intraregional supply chain solutions from producer to consumer
COMPARING APPLES WITH APPLES, the purchasing power parity (PPP) index of final household consumption expenditure in Sub-Saharan Africa, using the average 2005 US dollar exchange rate as a constant, was last reported at $832 008 892 761.36 in 2010 - according to the World Bank. It is now 2012, and Africa has grown even more. Household final consumption expenditure is the market value of all goods and services, purchased by households, including durable products such as cars, washing machines, home computers and other items. Exports of durable products such as foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals to Africa have also increased substantially.
Household final consumption expenditure (PPP USD 2005 = ZERO) in Sub Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa set for a boom in 2012 and beyond
Magazine Website Newsletter Market alerts
TToTo subsc
LEADIin Afran unsubsneed
Ma
STRUC
URE O
IL C
SEARCH
MIN
ING
OURISM
SCIEN
CE T
EC
RREE F
INANCE
TRANSP
ORT E
COMMUNIC
ATIONS
INFR
ASTRUC
NING
INDUST
RY AGRIC
ULTURE O
IL C
O
ETE
CHNOLO
GY RES
EARCH
MIN
ING IN
DU
ORT E
NERGY T
OURISM
SCIEN
CE T
ECHN
ASTRUCT
URE FIN
ANCE T
RANSPORT
ENER
EOIL
COMMUNIC
ATIONS
INFR
ASTRUCT
U
NOLOGY R
ESEA
RCH M
ININ
G INDUST
RY AGRICULT
URE O
IL
PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT
RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIISSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEENNNNNNNN
CCCCCCCCCCCCCCEEEEEETTTTTTEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
CCCCCCCHHHHHHHHHHHHHNNNNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLOOOOOO
RGY T
UCTURE
F
S
Transport-World-Africa twaeditorwww.twa.co.za
IMIESA October 2012 115
EDUCATION
Reticulation initiativeSAICE WRC SCHOOLS WATER COMPETITION 2012
The Aqualibrium educational initiative focuses on the preservation of water for future generations and encourages the youth to become part of this effort.
MARLEY INFRASTRUCTURE,
a division of Marley Pipe
Systems, was one of the
major sponsors at this year’s
South African Institution of Civil Engineering
(SAICE) and Water Research Commission
(WRC) Schools Water Competition. The finals
of the competition were held at the Sci-Bono
Discovery Centre in Newtown, where winners
of the individual regional competitions came
together to battle it out for prize money total-
ling more than R17 000.
To open the event, Marley’s Pranesh Maniraj
addressed the students on the importance of
water as a precious resource and the role of
water reticulation as a means of saving this
fundamental resource from one day running
out. Prof Kobus van Zyl then briefed the stu-
dents on what the competition would entail.
The teams of three students each were
tasked with designing a model water distribu-
tion network that would distribute three litres
of water equally between three points on the
grid using two different diameter pipes and
connection pieces. Each team had about an
hour in which to design, build and operate
their network and were judged according to a
penalty system.
The champions for 2012 came from the
Domino Servite School near Pietermaritzburg
with 160 penalty points conceded. The team
consisted of Bianca Coetzee, Ntengo Memela
and Zama Nyembe, whose ingenuity and prac-
ticality in design and execution is testament
to the untapped talent that the younger gen-
eration has to offer for the future of engineer-
ing and for the infrastructure of South Africa.
In addition,
Marley selected
six aspiring engi-
neers and civil
engineers from
the group of
finalists to par-
take in “a day with Marley”, which would give
them the opportunity to spend a day with
a Marley representative and gain valuable
insight into the manufacturing environment
and the practicalities of the industry. In the
build-up to the final, held in Johannesburg,
Knight Piésold’s CSI beneficiaries par ticipat-
ed in the Aqualibrium regional competition.
The regional SAICE-TCTA School Water
Competition was held in May 2012. This year
Knight Piésold supported the event by mak-
ing a financial contribution towards catering.
The company also provided par ticipants with
goodie bags.
Learners from previously disadvantaged
b a c k g r o u n d s
gathered at the
SAICE head
office in Midrand
to par ticipate in
this competition.
The purpose
of the competition was to emphasise the
importance of water distribution networks
for supplying safe and clean drinking water
to the people of South Africa as well as to
encourage learners to take mathematics and
science as school subjects. These subjects
are a gateway to professions in the built
environments.
Realogile High School (one of the schools
that Knight Piésold sponsors from Alexandra)
par ticipated again this year and was placed
in four th position.
The purpose of the competition was to emphasise the importance of water distribution networks
Above left Learners get cracking on their water challenge project
Above Marley Infrastructure was a sponsor at the SAICE and WRCSchools Water Competition
116 IMIESA October 2012
MUNICIPAL WATER
Municipal invoices still not consumer friendly in SA
Local and international research has shown that customers of many municipal entities, in both the developed and developing countries, struggle to understand their municipal invoices.
A LACK OF understanding of invoices
has a negative effect on customer
awareness, par ticipation and the
regulation of water services. It
also leads to distrust in the correctness of
an invoice, which, in turn, could affect con-
sumers’ willingness to pay. A study by the
Water Research Commission (WRC) found
that municipal invoices in South Africa have
much to improve on before they can function
as a tool to serve consumers effectively.
In par ticular, South African invoices are
not standardised at all. Most invoices do not
meet regulatory requirements, and are barely
legible as they are not in
plain and understandable
language as required by the
Consumer Protection Act
(68 of 2008) and far from
being user-friendly. Most
municipalities’ invoices are
not customer-orientated.
While South Africa has 11
of ficial languages, invoic-
es are still presented in
English only. Most invoices
do not communicate water
conservation and effective water use. South
African invoices do very little to reduce the
water and energy footprint, and lag far behind
international best practice in this regard.
Municipalities miss the opportunity to brand
water conservation through their invoices.
They could also be a tool to set consump-
tion targets or give incentives for conser-
vation. Very few municipal invoices show
comparative or historical consumption infor-
mation, which has been proved to positively
influence consumer behaviour.
A quantitative survey of 2 500 urban
respondents undertaken in 2010 by Sarah
Slabber t Associates showed
that the integrity of South
African municipal invoices is in
question. About 35% of con-
sumers doubt the correctness
of their municipal invoices. The
ordinary South African consum-
er struggles to find basic infor-
mation on municipal invoices,
such as the amount owed from
previous months, the meter reading date,
water use and Free Basic Water received.
For example, only 7.4% of respondents
could find the water use on an invoice that
scored ‘average’ (4.8 out of a possible
10 on the EMI tool that was developed
to evaluate municipal invoices). It is com-
mon practice on municipal invoices to use
numbers without the unit (R or kℓ), as well
as to include codes that are meaningless
to consumers.
Consumers have great difficulty to dis-
tinguish between numbers without units.
Consumers, especially those whose home
language is not English, find acronyms and
abbreviations such as ‘cons’, ‘w’, ‘bas’ or
‘char’ difficult to decipher. Consumers strug-
gle to understand words commonly used on
invoices, such as arrears, remittance advice,
rebate, consumption, opening balance, bal-
ance brought forward and previous. In some
cases, consumers confuse litres and kiloli-
tres. Simple changes dramatically increase
consumer understanding of municipal invoic-
es. Improved understanding strengthens con-
sumers’ trust in the correctness of the infor-
mation. According to the project leader Dr Sarah Slabbert of Sarah Slabbert Associates
IMIESA OCTOBER 2012 117
MUNICIPAL WATER
Integrated Waste Management PlansWaste Disposal StrategiesIdentification and permitting of landfill sitesDesign of General and Hazardous Waste sitesDesign of Solid Waste Transfer StationsDesign of Material Recovery FacilitiesOptimisation of Waste Collection SystemsAuditing of Waste Management FacilitiesDevelopment of Operational PlansClosure and Rehabilitation of LandfillsQuality Assurance on Synthetic LinersWaste Recycling Plans
Specialist Waste Management ConsultantsSustainable and appropriate engineering solutions with integrity and professionalism.
Jan Palm Consulting EngineersTel +27 21 982 6570 / Fax +27 21 981 0868 / E-mail [email protected] / www.jpce.co.za
Gansbaai Recycling Centre
Velddrif Transfer Station
Botrivier Drop-off
Herman us Materials Recovery Facility
Vissershok Waste Management Facility
Stanford Drop-off
Sarah Slabbert, municipal invoices, if used
properly, present a significant opportunity
to engage customers in water conservation,
water regulation and planning. The WRC
has created a platform for South African
municipalities to work towards improving
compliance and standardising their domestic
municipal invoices. The Standards Document
is an ef for t to
steer municipali-
ties, financial ser-
vices, businesses
and customers
towards quality
and efficiency in water management.
The standards and model invoices devel-
oped and tested in the study aim to improve
the understanding of domestic water invoic-
es, within specific South African regulatory
requirements, and contribute to changing
behaviour and reducing consumers’ water
footprint. Better understanding will improve
consumers’ trust in the validity of their invoic-
es, which will, in turn, improve consumers’
trust in, and suppor t for,
their municipalities.
Jay Bhagwan, WRC director
in Water Use and Waste man-
agement, says: “New soft-
ware developments and tech-
nology hold exciting possibili-
ties to address shortcomings
in the design and communi-
cation of municipal invoices. Opportunities
include sending invoices via SMS, e-mail
and web; using SMS, e-mail and the web to
activate payment, explain invoice details, set
targets, give incentives, communicate inter-
ruptions and educate consumers on how to
use water and electricity more effectively;
and using interactive websites to explain
invoices and assist consumers to manage
“Opportunities include... using interactive websites to explain
invoices.” Jay Bhagwan, WRC director
in Water Use and Waste management
their invoices.”
The WRC study
recommends a
cus tomer - cen t r ed
approach to achieve
compliance with the
Consumer Protection
Act (68 of 2008).
Municipalities could
star t to involve their
consumers in the
development of their
invoices and test
their customers to
make sure that they
are indeed clear. The WRC also recommends
the use of the EMI Tool to effect simple
changes, which is specifically developed to
evaluate invoices based on international
and local regulation standards. The study,
entitled “Towards standards for munici-
pal invoices in South Africa” (Report no.
TT 458), is fully downloadable to registered
website users.
IMIESA October 2012 117
WATER AND WASTEWATER
kWh
Energie-besparing
Zonder oplossingBaseline energie@ gemeten@ geregistreerd
TijdMet oplossing
Implementatie van energiebeheeroplossing
Metingen geregistreerd voor vergelijking met de referentie
Metingen geregistreerd tijdens de referentieperiode
©2012 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved. Schneider Electric, Make the most of your energy, and EcoStruxure are trademarks owned by Schneider Electric Industries SAS or its affiliated companies. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Registered Name: Schneider Electric South Africa (Pty) Ltd Registration Number: 1971/002841/07 Terms and conditions apply. www.schneider-electric.com • 998-2574_ZA_B
Our combined security, SCADA, and power monitoring solution yields the highest efficiency
When you can see the whole facility, you’ll see the savings
Make the most of your energySM
Learn more about our water solutionsDownload our FREE water solutions guide today and stand a chance to WIN an iPad 2!Visit www.SEreply.com and enter the key code 20782pCall +27-11-254-6400
Energy is a major part of water’s price and, of course, your facility’s operating costs. In addition, energy is the single largest contributor to the carbon footprint of the water process. Fortunately, Schneider Electric™ has the solution to manage and optimise your energy in line with your process obligations — and to reduce your carbon foot print.
Our comprehensive approach to energy management, along with combined power and process services, can yield an energy cost reduction of up to 30 per cent of your existing installation. And with visibility across your entire water network, you’ll be able to optimise the management of your process, reducing and avoiding energy waste in real time.
Flexible software, reliable services make upgrading easyWhen you partner with Schneider Electric all along the life cycle of your facility, you’ll gain access to our expertise as a world leader in electrical distribution, motor control, and process automation.
We encourage you to directly involve our experts and engineers by inviting them to conduct a thorough on-site audit and diagnosis of your facility, allowing them to propose informed solutions for improvement.
Improve productivity and safety at onceAdd to this, integrated security and remote management capabilities, and you’ve got a scalable, flexible solution to reduce energy costs, lower your carbon footprint, and provide a safer, more productive work environment for your employees.
The difference an energy management solution makes
Presenting EcoStruxure™, a solutions approach to the energy needs of the water industry that combines advanced power management with a proven automation control system to improve your energy effi ciency and help yield a holistically optimised plant.
IMIESA October 2012 119
ENERGY
Enhancing the quality of life in rural KwaZulu-Natal
Biogas digesters have been installed in the Upper Thukela area in KwaZulu-Natal as part of a natural resource management project to enhance the quality of life of people living there. Agama Biogas’s Greg Austin reports.
BEFORE HER Agama biodigester was
installed, Mama Ethel Khumalo
spent R800 of her R1 140 monthly
pension on energy – R100 on elec-
tricity and R700 on wood. Unfortunately, both
the electricity and the wood never lasted a full
month, and the family often spent nights at a
time with only candles to light their home and
no fire to cook over. Today, she uses the dung
from her five cattle to feed the biodigester. The
gas it produces is used for cooking and the
electricity she purchases to light the home.
As a result of the digester, the family always
has light and Mama Khumalo has cut her
Eskom expense to R50 a month and no longer
buys wood.
Mama Miya’s household is large – three
adults, two children out of school and eight
school-going children. Before the biogas
digester project, she used R200 a month of
electricity for lighting and ironing, and spent
close to three hours a day collecting wood
to use for cooking. She points out that the
digester saves her time and money, as she
no longer needs to collect wood and she has
cut her electricity spend to R50 a month.
In a nearby valley, Velam Khumalo used to
spend R800 of his pension each month to
buy wood for cooking. This never lasted the
full month and so his wife and children would
go out to collect wood and cow dung. With
the biodigester providing all the energy they
need for cooking, they don’t need to forage
for fuel and he can spend that R800 on other
items like clothing, school books, candles
and more food to supplement the family’s
meagre pantry.
These three stories provide anecdotal evi-
dence of the benefits of biogas, an alternative
energy technology fulfilling all the criteria relat-
ing to environmental sustainability, requiring
relatively low technological input and being cost
effective to implement.
Although biogas is used all over the world
(India for instance has more than 12 million
ABOVE One of the biogas digesters installed in the Upper Thukela area
Infrastructurene.ws brings together the communities from our three magazines – IMIESA, Water&Sanitation Africa and ReSource. It is a leading news hub, with in-depth articles, videos and podcasts, an events calendar, and full social media functionality.
Have your say or get the conversation
started about anything and everything related to the infrastructure and service delivery industries.
The @infrastructure4 tweets will keep you updated on all the latest, exciting and, of course, interesting happenings in the infrastructure and service delivery industries.
READY FOR MORE?To advertise on infrastructurene.ws, contact Jenny [email protected]: +27 (0)11 467 6223Fax: 086 587 6247
For editorial enquiries contact Candice Landie [email protected]: +27 (0)11 233 2600 Fax: +27 (0)11 234 7275
VISIT www.infrastructurene.ws TODAY
STAY IN TOUCH A weekly newsletter keeps you up to dateSign up online for our FREE weekly newsletter and get an instant summary of the latest news, events and developments in the infrastructure and service delivery industries.
JOIN THE INFRASTRUCTURENE.WS COMMUNITY FOR FREE
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT MAINTENANCE SERVICE DELIVERY
Water storage solutions for Africa
IMESAThe official magazine of the Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT MAINTENANCE SERVICE DELIVERY
Winner of the 2011 PICA Non-professional writer of the year
WaterLooming crisis
EkurhuleniUrban infrastructure
LitterLurking danger
I S S N 0 2 5 7 1 9 7 8 V o l u m e 3 7 N o . 5 R 4 0 . 0 0 ( i n c l V A T )
Dirk Meyer, managing director of Corobrik:
MEDIA
Complete water resource and wastewater management
Think water, think WISA!The official magazine of the Water Institute of Southern Africa
MEDIA
Africa
Dean Mulqueeny, managing director NCP Chlorchem, discusses the company'swater treatment solutions
THE HOT SEAT P12
y'
P1's
12
TT
SEMBCORPVital partners,
essential water solutions
MUNICIPALITIES Water metering reference guide
WATER REPORTCradle of Humankind
Scan here to go to website
IMIESA October 2012 121
digesters), biogas in South Africa is practically
unknown. Less than 100, mostly small-scale
domestic installations, have successfully been
built and commissioned to date, locally.
The BiogasPro (from SESSA member Agama
Biogas), the first small digester to achieve
certification from the South African Pipeline
Gas Association and is installed in the Upper
Thukela area, is a unique, patented system
that is engineered, designed and manufactured
in South Africa for African conditions.
The unit has a total capacity of 6 000 ℓ and
can produce a nominal amount of 1.9 m3
of biogas every day, which is equivalent to
four hours burning time on a single gas
plate, 0.8 kg LPG, or 3.5 kWh continuous elec-
trical output. The biogas is captured and stored
within the upper part of the digester itself,
which has a gas storage capacity of 0.95 m3,
and relies on hydraulic pressure to produce gas
pressure at 7 kPa when fully primed.
The benefits of the Biogas Pro range are many,
including the following:
• prefabricated from linear, low-density pol-
yethylene (LLDPE) using a roto-moulding
manufacturing technique, making it ideal for
a wide range of applications and situations
• robust
• quick to install because it is pre-engineered
to circumvent the complex brickwork required
to build a digester
from scratch
• convenient to use.
Installations can be
performed by certi-
fied drainage and
gas technicians, who are accredited by Agama
Biogas. Alternatively there is a ‘DIY option’
where customers install the digesters them-
selves from comprehensive manuals supplied
with the digesters.
To prove the efficacy of the technology local-
ly, two senior researchers from the University
of KwaZulu-Natal, Dr Monique Salomon and
Dr Terry Everson will be working with Mama
Khumalo, Mama Miya, Velam Khumalo and
others to plot their electricity and wood use
both before and post installation.
The biogas household owners provided
input regarding the variables that they would
measure during the project. Salomon created
a data sheet using photographs to facilitate
recording of data by both illiterate and edu-
cated household members.
Each par ticipant has been given a file with
copies of the
data sheets and
an information
leaflet on ways
to save energy
when cooking.
We are looking forward to receiving the
results of the project as we believe it will
help fuel the demand for biodigesters in
other areas around the country. We anticipate
that with an increasing number of reference
projects, our biogas systems will become
more mainstream.
It is important to note, though, that this
project is focused on reducing the wood
used for cooking and heating purposes. The
gas produced by the digesters can also be
used for lighting and heating, and this is a
‘second phase’ that could be introduced at a
later date.
This project is focused on reducing the wood used for cooking and heating purposes
ENERGY
122 IMIESA October 2012
MUNICIPAL GOVERNANCE
Reassessing municipal management Municipal officials need to relook their management and governance structures to turn the tables on the increasing number of difficulties and challenges they face, says professional services firm PwC.
WHILE THE audit outcomes
report for 2011/12 issued by
the Auditor-General, Terence
Nombembe, paints a dismal
picture of the country’s state of municipali-
ties, Kalane Rampai, PwC leader for Local
Government for Southern Africa, believes that
many of the issues that are giving rise to these
challenges cannot be isolated in a vacuum –
“the whole system must be reviewed and a
comprehensive turnaround plan be executed”.
Therefore, the focus should be broader than fix-
ing the financial management practices.
PwC supports the findings contained in the
Auditor-General’s reports, which PwC also
picked up during its dealings with local govern-
ment as auditor and adviser. These include the
poor quality of integrated development plans
(IDPs) and the poor supply chain and contract
management practices.
“These tend to be big problems in local
government,” says Rampai. “There are also
internal control deficiencies, with too many
loopholes where people can get away with
doing the wrong things.”
Johan Leibbrandt, a local government spe-
cialist adviser at PwC, says that another dif-
ficulty is that the current legal framework is
too onerous and costly for local government.
“Municipalities spend a lot of time and
money on complying with these laws, and
less focus on service delivery. Some of the
audit qualifications are also as a result of the
complexity of the requirements from these
regulations, which small municipalities find
difficult to comply with. The compliance pro-
cess needs to be simplified. There needs to be
a balance between service delivery imperatives
and compliance with the laws and auditing
standards,” says Leibbrandt.
However, South Africa has some very effi-
cient and sustainable municipalities in place,
he states. The findings of the Auditor-General’s
report bear testimony to this, with 13 munici-
palities receiving a clean audit and 115 receiv-
ing financially unqualified audit.
“This is an indication that the government’s
initiatives, such as the building of skills and
good governance practices, are beginning to
have an effect.” The government has also
rolled out a number of other initiatives to
improve a sustainable and accountable local
government. However, the difficulty with some
of these initiatives is that there are usually
insufficient skills and resources to sustain the
action plans beyond the intervention period,
explains Leibbrandt.
“PwC believes that there is a solution
towards a sustainable turnaround for local
government and in achieving clean audit.
PwC is committed to working closely and in
partnership with local government to assist
municipalities in overcoming their difficulties,”
says Leibbrandt.
Rampai suggest several solutions: “Firstly,
a credible IDP plan linked to the SDBIP
(Service Delivery and Budget Implementation
Plan), budget and Performance Management
System will drive the conduct of people in the
right direction. Currently, the IDPs of most
municipalities are prepared purely for compli-
ance with legislation, and if linked to budget
and scorecards of senior executives, such a
linkage can be quantified to be below 30%.
Further, the plans should be supported by
adequate governance and management struc-
tures, and optimal oversight systems.”
Secondly, the right performance enablers
should be put in place, such as facilities, infra-
structure, technology, processes and people.
“Local government needs to recruit and
retain the best available talent, particularly
the best possible leadership. It also needs to
implement the right value system at the top.
An organisation cannot confine values to a
document, such as a Code of Conduct. Leaders
need to set, define and live out values in order
for others in the organisation to follow them.”
Thirdly, management needs to reward
employees for good performance and there
must be consequences for poor performance.
Rampai says that the right partners must be
brought on board to assist in the delivery and
execution of these IDPs.
“Service delivery is the cornerstone of
local government and is currently by and
large impeded by internal constraints and
the silo effect. Sector departments, SOEs
(state-owned enterprises) and private sector
all have a role to play. Municipalities should
ensure that a space is created for meaning-
ful partnerships to be developed with these
social partners.
A clean audit should not be the outcome
we seek to achieve, but should be the only
outcome possible. This can only happen if
municipalities do the right things daily and not
at year end in preparation for the audit. The
importance of local government in the prosper-
ity of South Africa cannot be overemphasised.
Even private sector needs effective and effi-
cient local government to be successful and
globally competitive.
Municipalities should ensure that a space is created for meaningful partnerships to be developed with these social partners
IMIESA October 2012 123
MUNICIPAL GOVERNANCE
Municipal electricity wired for success
Over the last decade, asset management company, Pragma, has proven its consistent added value to local government service delivery by providing its expertise to five metropolitan municipalities.
THESE ARE: Ekurhuleni; City of Cape
Town; Nelson Mandela Bay; uThungulu
and eThekwini.
Pragma’s engagement with each
municipality started with either a detailed
asset management maturity assessment with
the development of a comprehensive asset
management strategy, or an asset identifica-
tion and verification process with an asset
management strategy.
The vehicle used to implement this strategy
is known as Asset Care Centres (ACC) and has
been implemented in each of these municipali-
ties. The ACC integrates best practice business
processes, enabling technologies and people
skills into a unified system that delivers infra-
structure asset performance at the least sus-
tainable cost and fully contained asset-related
risks, while maintaining an asset register com-
pliant to all public finance regulations.
Key challenges at the electricity and energy
department of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan
Municipality included the amalgamation of
nine previous municipalities and the associ-
ated challenges of improving and standardising
the level of maintenance and refurbishment,
personnel skills, technical asset management
and operations as examples.
“We used Pragma’s enterprise asset man-
agement system, On Key, as well as Pragma’s
Asset Management Improvement Plan (AMIP)
to improve performance. This has enabled us
to collate accurate asset data, standardised
work planning and control procedures, and
easier decision making based on accurate
data.
Through improved
asset manage-
ment, we supported
Ekurhuleni to invest
more than R600 mil-
lion on the refurbish-
ment of networks
over the last three
years,” explains Johannes Coetzee, regional
manager of Pragma Africa.
“Since Pragma established the solid basis of
maintenance, planning and asset care via On
Key and a dedicated ACC, it ensured best prac-
tice and standardisations thereof in our organi-
sation,” adds Hannes Roos, director: opera-
tions and maintenance, electricity division.
The distribution directorate of the Nelson
Mandela Bay Municipality is responsible for the
maintenance of and extensions to the distribu-
tion network, which includes overhead lines,
substations, underground cable networks, high
mast lighting and gas turbines.
Challenges facing the directorate included
low morale among the workforce, significant
manpower shortages, reluctance to accept a
formalised computerised main-
tenance system, seven depots
being supported from a central
ACC with a slow and unreliable
network, and unmaintained mul-
tiple asset data bases.
“Municipalities are required to
deliver services that are depend-
able, of consistent standard and
affordable. Delivering this standard of service
is influenced by a number of factors, and infra-
structure asset performance is certainly most
critical. Pragma’s ACCs is currently making the
difference in sustainable infrastructure asset
performance and thereby positively contribut-
ing to service delivery,” maintains Alan Tait,
managing director of Pragma Africa.
Municipalities are required to deliver services that are dependable, of consistent standard and affordable
(PTY) LTD
Saving Water, Saving LivesYARD WATER METER
523 Church Street, Provisus Building, Arcadia,Pretoria, 0083, South AfricaTel: +27 12 440 9885 | Fax: +27 12 440 9751Naphtali Motaung | +27 72 736 [email protected] | www.lesira.co.za
COMMUNITY STANDPIPE
HANDHELD VENDING UNIT
OVERVIEWThe Intelligent Water Meter and the supporting Meter Management System (MMS) provides a revolutionary approach to Water Demand Management. The Intelligent
water savings through consumption management and leak detection with
Bad debt is reduced and the lower consumption contributes towards reduced demand on reticulation and treatment plant.
FEATURES
Revenue collection via standard billing. The client can check the status of his/her debt at any given time
the client buys credit in advance from a vending point the user is assigned a negative credit limit in
litres or rand value
700 C, water hammer and dirt particles in water
OVERVIEWThe Community Standpipe Water Meter and supporting Meter Management System (WAS) is designed to offer a solution to the provision of water at communal water supply points. It requires low capital investment and can be used in both rural areas and informal settlements.
unit consists of a Class B multi jet water meter with
patented valve system ensures extended battery life. The unit is meteorologically sealed and provides a high level of resistance to physical tamper and is immune to magnetic tamper. Should the meter become faulty, it can
FEATURES
OVERVIEW
is used in conjunction with the Intelligent Water Meter and Community Standpipe. It provides the link between the Meter and the Meter Management System (MMS). A network of conveniently located
customer with easy access to “point of sale” where credit can
is supported by a receipt printed from a dedicated printer.
FEATURES
charger. A car charger can also be used
data and online transactions
IMIESA October 2012 125
ROAD EQUIPMENT
‘E’ is for evolutionary with regards to Bell Equipment’s E-series generation of articulated dump trucks.
THIS IS according to Bell Equipment
chief executive Gary Bell. The South
African specialist and world leader
in the design and manufacture of
articulated dump trucks (ADTs) previewed its
latest product development for the first time
at this year’s Intermat in France.
With a wider hood and more imposing styl-
ing, the E-series looks well poised to grow Bell
Equipment’s proud heritage as a premium ADT
supplier and is planned to go into production
in 2013.
“We believe that our D-series has success-
fully met the challenges of the world’s job
sites and has many strengths and features
across the range that our customers would
like to see car-
ried forward
in our product
advancement.
Therefore we
have adopted
an evolutionary approach to the E-series, to
build on the legacy of the D-series genera-
tion and our decades of experience in design
and manufacture, rather than a revolutionary
clean-sheet design. We’ve stuck to our design
principles of delivering weight optimised, high-
production trucks with superior tractive effort,
but looked at ways of doing things smarter
to provide customers with an even greater
competitive advantage in their businesses,”
says Bell.
Bell Equipment has a tradition of pioneer-
ing industry firsts
and these ground-
breaking ADT inno-
vations are in its
latest generation
of trucks, includ-
ing standard on-board weighing, keyless igni-
tion, HillAssist, bin tip prevention, Auto Park
Application and standard turbo spin protec-
tion. In addition, the new trucks include vari-
ous other safety features and further advance-
ments have been made to the company’s fleet
management system, Fleetm@tic, to take
the existing technology to the next level and
provide customers with seamless integration
with their business systems. The new styling
keeps the functional strength and advantages
of the truck and ensures that no compromise
will be necessary to meet future emissions
requirements. “In Europe, the E-series trucks
will continue to use Bell’s Blu@dvantage sys-
tem, with its fuel saving benefits. Importantly,
the E-series platform has been engineered
to be with us for a long time and to stand up
to any future movements in the market and
legislation,” explains Bell.
Bell has been developing the E-series for the past five years and is currently in the final stages of durability testing, having enlisted reputable independent national and international test facilities for additional verification
Bell previews its new E-series ADT
Rhe E-series looks well poised to grow Bell Equipment’s proud heritage
ROAD EQUIPMENT
New publication on sustainable concrete roadsThe Cement & Concrete Institute (C&CI) has produced a new publication, Concrete Roads: a sustainable solution – the third in a series of publications on the sustainable use of concrete.
AUTHORED BY Bryan Perrie, the C&CI managing director
and a globally respected authority on concrete pavements,
the free publication covers the environmental, economic
and social aspects of concrete pavements and draws on
international experience to demonstrate that concrete pavements are
a sustainable solution for South Africa.
Perrie says in the introduction: “Sustainable pavements make effi-
cient use of natural resources and respect the environment during
their entire life cycle; they improve transport facilities for the entire
community, provide services to society in terms of mobility, safety and
comfort by means of judicious choices regarding design, construction,
maintenance and demolition.”
He believes that concrete pavements offer substantial benefits
over the long term and – in economic terms – are often the most
favourable solution when life cycle costs are taken into account. “This
is even more so
when user costs
are taken into
account, as con-
crete requires
minimal mainte-
nance and results
in less disruption
to road users.”
Furthermore, concrete pavements provide benefits such as reduced
fuel consumption, pollution reduction, stormwater attenuation, local
availability, recyclability, reduced heat island effect, reduction in street
lighting requirements, labour-intensive construction and improved
skid resistance.
“Concrete pavements have a crucial role to play in the provision
of new infrastructure in South Africa as well as for the upgrading of
existing pavement infrastructure. Concrete overlays and inlays provide
an ideal solution for the upgrading of existing asphalt and unsurfaced
pavements for all categories of traffic. The development of ultra-thin
concrete pavements has added to the various type of concrete avail-
able to the road design engineer,” he states.
“Sustainable pavements make effi cient use of natural resources and respect the environment”
126 IMIESA October 2012
IMIESA October 2012 127
ROAD EQUIPMENT
New road stabilisation product A specialist product designed for road stabilisation applications has been launched by AfriSam.
CALLED ROADSTAB CEMENT, the
new product has been undergoing
research, development and test-
ing for the past three years.
“Roadstab Cement will offer civil engineers
an excellent alternative for road design,” says
Mike McDonald, AfriSam product manager.
“This product has been developed to
achieve superior stability across a broad
range of road material types. Roadstab
Cement offers enhanced per formance, even
with soils with a high plasticity index.
“We’ve also had exciting results from tests
conducted on the higher clay containing soils
found in the Free State and we’re eagerly
awaiting the reaction of our customers to this
product. We can assure them that Roadstab
Cement will deliver on our promises, based
on the consistently good outcomes record-
ed from trials on stabilisation pro-
jects on the N8 in Tweespruit
in the Free State, the N1 from
Fonteintjie to Wurasoord, the N6
at Smithfield and the N5 from
Bethlehem to Kestell.
“The same excellent results
have been demonstrated on
projects in Gauteng. These
include the Kaalfontein Road in Midrand,
the R21 between Boksburg and OR Tambo
International Airpor t and on runways at
Lanseria Airpor t.”
Stabilisation using cement improves the
engineering properties of granular materials.
Cement with extended setting times, such as a
Roadstab Cement in the 32.5 strength class,
is more suitable for soil stabilisation applica-
tions, because of the longer working times
required to place and compact the material.
McDonald says a minimum of 2% cemen-
titious material is required to ensure a
uniform distribu-
tion of the stabilis-
ing agent through-
out the stabilised
layer, as cement
contents lower
than this may result in
the required strengths
not being achieved,
even though prior
laborator y tests have
indicated otherwise.
“The selection of the
cement type influences
the ‘working time’,
which is defined as the time between plac-
ing and compaction of the stabilised layer,”
he explains. “If most of the hydration has
occurred by the time the material is com-
pacted, the chemical bonds that have been
formed between the cement and the soil
will be broken down by the compaction pro-
cess and fur ther chemical bonding will be
limited. “This limitation may result in lower
in-situ strength of the stabilised layers and
we recommend that a 32.5 strength class
cement with a slower rate of strength gain
is used. Roadstab Cement effectively meets
these criteria.”
Upgrade across the boardThe release of
Roadstab Cement fol-
lows in the wake of
AfriSam’s recent across-the-board revision of
its entire cement product por tfolio.
“The upgrade of our cement product range
forms part of our strategic vision and posi-
tioning as a company committed to sustain-
able innovation. The completion of this initia-
tive is a proud milestone along the AfriSam
journey – with more to come,” Stephan
Olivier, AfriSam CEO, says.
BELOW Roadstab Cement offers civil engineers an excellent alternative for road design and has been tested on several contracts with success
BOTTOM Roadstab Cement has been developed to achieve superior stability across a broad range of road material types and offers enhanced performance, even with soils with a high plasticity index
ciiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiivivilvivvililllilililllvilllllillvvillllillllilllliliillvilvvvv or ooororrrrooroorr r rrrrrrr r rrrrr roarorooaaaaaaaaoaarorr adddddddddd
veral
“This product has been developed to achieve superior stability”
128 IMIESA October 2012
ROAD EQUIPMENT
Improving public transportThe improvement of public transport is one of eight key strategic focus areas identified by the City of Cape Town in its Integrated Development Plan for achieving its long-term vision and developmental goals.
THE CITY has been working on the
first phase of an Integrated Rapid
Transit (IRT) system, aimed at signifi-
cantly improving its public transport.
The first leg of this IRT system is the dedi-
cated work on the MyCiTi IRT system. While
the first leg is primarily a Bus Rapid Transit
(BRT) system, it is designed in a way that
emphasises the need for integration with other
modes, especially rail, the backbone of public
transport in Cape Town.
Phase 1A of the project includes the inner city
(including extension to Hout Bay), Woodstock
rail station, Paarden Eiland, Milner ton,
Montague Gardens, Century City, Dunoon,
Table View, Melkbos, Atlantis and Mamre. It
also includes the rapidly growing residential
areas in Blaauwberg north of the Diep River,
and the low-income communities of Atlantis,
Mamre, Du Noon and Doornbach. This corridor
faces some of the worst peak period conges-
tion levels, especially to the south and east
of the bridges over the Diep River. In October
2011, the council approved the commence-
ment of planning of Phase 1B (completion of
the logical set of services around Phase 1A),
and Phase 2 (Metro South East, including
Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain), which are
now nearing construction.
“The construction of the first stage of Phase
1A began in mid-2008. The route and stations
between the Greenpoint Stadium and the Civic
Centre was completed for the 2010 FIFA World
Cup. The second stage was constructed from
Civic Centre to Tableview, Bayside Centre, and
was completed for operation in May 2011. The
remainder of the routes, Blaauwberg Road,
Melkbos, Atlantis and Potsdam Road will be
completed by the middle of 2013 with the
whole Phase 1A system coming into full opera-
tion in the second half of 2013,” explains
Alastair Rendall, MD of ARG Design: Architects
& Urban Designers.
Corobrik has supplied 350 000 of its Autumn
Pavers to this ambitious project where they
have been used on the ramps of bus stations.
Dedicated bus lanes have also been created
in Cape Town providing vital link up with major
routes, and this could see the number of
Autumn Pavers used increase to as much as
800 000 over the next few years.
Thibault Station is one of the integrated rapid transport stations within the Cape Town CBD
It is designed in a way that emphasises the need for integration with other modes, especially rail
IMIESA October 2012 129
Africa’s
leader in
natural
resource
and
development
solutions
Tel: +27(0) 11 441 1111 www.srk.co.za
“The Corobrik pavers have been used on the
sidewalks at station intersections and median
walkways to the stations. The specific pavers
were chosen to match the environment in
which the stations are located. Thibault Station
is paved with De Hoop Red as it is in the CBD
core area of the city in which the City of Cape
Town has selected this brick as the primary
theme. The Autumn Paver is used throughout
the route from the Civic Centre to Tableview
as it also accords with the City of Cape Town’s
landscape theme,” highlights Rendall. It is
estimated that more than 1 million Autumn,
Wheatstone and De Hoop Red pavers have
been supplied to these sections of the project.
“It is well known that solid clay 73 mm
pavers are the most durable paving mate-
rial available. In addition, they are aestheti-
cally pleasing due to their earthy colours
and ‘all-the-way-through’ colour. It is espe-
cially pleasing when seen during rain or when
‘irrigated’ by landscape sprinkler systems as
the moisture intensifies the colours,” main-
tains Rendall.
Corobrik has an established demand in
Cape Town having previously supplied
2.5 million Autumn 73 mm pavers, 350 500
De Hoop brown and 509 500 De Hoop
red 73 mm pavers to the Greenpoint
Stadium precinct.
ABOVE One of Cape Town’s BRT buses that are offering an improved transport system for residents of the city. Corobrik Autumn Pavers have been used on the ramps of the bus stations at the new IRT system
BELOW Cape Town’s new Integrated Rapid Transport system is improving publicity transport in the city. Corobrik’s Autumn Pavers have been used on the ramps of bus stations
Facelift for Free State bridge
The Modder River Bridge in the Free State was constructed in 1951. Sixty years on, the ageing bridge, for the first time in its history, required some cosmetic “surgery”.
BRIDGE REHABILITATION
AURECON WAS responsible for the
637 m2 operation and specified
Sika products, not only for their
outstanding quality, but also for their
excellent pricing and accessibility. The project
commenced in January 2011, with contrac-
tor Roadcrete Africa repairing the beams and
columns of the bridge. SikaTop-Armatec 110
EpoCem (40 kits) was used as a primer and
bonding agent prior to application of the repair
mortar. This cement-based, epoxy-modified,
three-component product, provides excellent
adhesion to steel and concrete, acts as an
ROAD EQUIPMENT
130 IMIESA October 2012
effective barrier against penetration of water
and chlorides and contains corrosion inhibitors.
It also provides a high degree of mechanical
strength and may be spray applied.
After the required waiting period, the beams
and columns were then coated with Sika
MonoTop-615 HB (50 bags). This is a high build,
cementitious, polymer-modified, one compo-
nent repair and reprofiling mortar containing sil-
ica fume. It is designed for thick layer concrete
repairs, and its excellent thixotropic behaviour
is especially suited for overhead and vertical
applications, making it an ideal product for this
project. Sika MonoTop-615 HB provides excel-
lent workability characteristics, requires mixing
with water only, has an adjustable consistency,
and is sprayable by the wet spray method. It
also provides good mechanical strength, good
freeze/thaw resistance as well as good resist-
ance to water and chloride penetration.
Following the repair phase of the pro-
ject, the entire bridge was coated with Sika
TopSeal-107 ZA (15 kits) which is a two-part,
polymer-modified, cementitious, mortar slurry
comprising a liquid polymer and a cement-
based mix, incorporating special admixtures.
It is used for exterior and interior waterproof-
ing and damp-proofing of concrete, including
basements and cellars. It provides protection
of concrete structures against the effects of
chloride and carbonation attack and freeze/
thaw attack, and may also be used for pore/
blowhole filling, sealing of hairline cracks and
as a levelling mortar. Sika TopSeal-107 ZA is
easy to mix and provides ease of application,
either by hand (using a brush or thin trowel) or
by the spray method. Providing very good adhe-
sion, it is also non-corrosive to steel or iron,
is over-paintable and possesses approval for
potable water contact.
Heavy rains causing delays, and interruptions
caused the contractor to be behind schedule
and the project was completed in September
2011. Now that the Modder River Bridge has
been repaired, strengthened and protected
with Sika’s high-quality products, there is
no doubt that it will continue to carry traffic
between Bloemfontein, Brandfort, Theunissen
and Welkom far into the foreseeable future.
IMIESA October 2012 131
“Although steel remains expensive, the price of cement has recently seen a dramatic rise, reducing the advantage of a lower initial outlay for a bricks and mortar reservoir.” Rainbow
Reservoir managing director, Wayne Thompson
Relocatable steel reservoirs
Rainbow Reservoirs has begun local manufacture of several reservoir component par ts and plans to begin local rolling of the Zincalume steel panels.
LOCAL ROLLING will increase the
number of flat panels that can be
packed by the source factory over-
seas into a shipping container, low-
ering shipping costs and helping Rainbow to
keep prices down. Panel cutting and punching
is likely to continue abroad because of the
precise nature of these operations and the
high cost of the machinery needed to carry
them out. Announcing plans for local panel
rolling, Rainbow managing director, Wayne
Thompson, explains that a worldwide short-
age of freshwater continues to drive reservoir
construction. Freshwater comprises just 3%
of all water covering the world’s sur face, and
much of it occurs only in the form of unusable
ice, he says.
According to Thompson, the steel panel res-
ervoir in recent years has been read-
ily adopted by commerce, industry
and construction because of its
increased structural and general
sophistication, and because of
the savings in space and
ease of installation deliv-
ered by a panel design.
However, agriculture has
largely ignored this con-
venience, preferring the
bricks and mortar structures, which have
over time become ingrained as the generally
accepted method of construction.
“In some sectors, the steel alternative
remains incorrectly viewed as expensive,”
explains Thompson.
“The purchase price is possibly gener-
ally higher than a bricks-and-mortar alterna-
tive, but when viewed in terms of overall
lifetime cost the panel reservoir is always
much, much cheaper than bricks and mor-
tar, and it carries the additional advantage
of relocatability.”
Thompson explains that a lower lifetime
cost is the direct result of the longer effec-
tive life of the steel panel reservoir. His
own product, the Rainbow reservoir, has
leak-free, corrosion-free installations going
back 30 years and more. The bricks and
mortar reservoir, by contrast, has a gen-
erally accepted effective lifespan of only
fifteen years. The inherent strength of the
steel reservoir, too, is often misunderstood.
Thompson argues that the cracks and bursts
that routinely occur in bricks-and-mortar res-
ervoirs (the result of unsound construction
and ear th movement) should cast doubt
on a preference for older methods of
reservoir construction.
“Although steel remains expensive, the
price of cement has recently seen a dramatic
rise, reducing the advantage of a lower initial
outlay for a bricks and mortar reservoir,”
he says.
“When the projected life of such a struc-
ture, say 15 years, is compared to the life of
30, 40 and more years of a steel reservoir,
the case for the latter becomes clear.”
Relocatability is a fur ther advantage,
Thompson points out.
“Whereas the bricks and mortar construct
is fixed, the steel reservoir’s design facili-
tates easy relocation. Should the source of
the steel reservoir’s water run dry, it can
simply be moved.
“In this way, the steel reservoir becomes
an asset rather than a consumable.”
A typical Rainbow steel panel reservoir
ndustry
of its
eneral
e of
m
e
WATER EQUIPMENT
132 IMIESA October 2012
WATER EQUIPMENT
Reinforcing soil at Bushkoppies WWTWAfter initial investigation the soil conditions at Bushkoppies Waste Water Treatment Works were found to be too soft and the shear strength unsatisfactory.
WHEN JOHANNESBURG WATER
instructed contractors’
Eigenbau Construction and
Zitholele Consulting Engineers
to erect four additional anaerobic digesters
at the Bushkoppies Waste Water Treatment
Works (WWTW) in Eldorado Estates, manda-
tory assessments of the soil strength were
carried out to ensure it had sufficient load-
bearing capacity.
Recommendation of RockGrid PCIt was essential that the soil foundation
was sufficiently solid in order to support a
20 m high, round anaerobic digester with a
diameter stretching up to 12.3 m and a wall
thickness of 400 mm reinforced concrete.
However, as the soil was found to be too
soft and the shear strength unsatisfactory,
it was deemed necessary to reinforce the
soil. Kaytech was called in to find a solu-
tion, and after carrying out the requisite
tests, the engineer recommended the use of
RockGrid PC, a high tensile strength compos-
ite geotextile, as the ideal solution.
It of fers the reinforcement character-
istics of a woven geogrid in conjunction
with the favourable
hydraulic qualities of
a non-woven geotex-
tile. The non-woven
is strengthened with
high tenacity, multifila-
ment polyester yarns.
This combination of components guarantees
the unique characteristics of RockGrid PC.
Additionally, the non-woven layer protects the
reinforcement elements during the critical
installation phase, thereby ensuring a safer
optimum per formance.
Wherever soft soils with low bearing capac-
ity are encountered, RockGrid PC can be used
as an effective and lasting reinforcement.
Even wet, cohesive soils can be utilised as
a fill in steep, retaining structures because
the PC grid helps drain the fill and accelerate
the consolidation process. This prevents soil
exchange and makes the import of expensive
fill material unnecessary, saving both time
and money.
Design and solutionIn the foundation design, the consultant
allowed for extra cushion, which is intended
to give suppor t to
the bearing capacity
of the soil by wrap-
ping dump rock at a
600 mm depth sur-
rounding the founda-
tion bearing area of
the digester. This will prevent possible shear
in the soil and will also act as a drainage
medium in case there is variation in the
water content. Because the PC grid carries
both the drainage characteristic as well as
the high biaxial strength (100 kN), should the
nature of the soil change, the environment
change, and/or water content increase, the
PC grid will ensure that no fines will escape
into the dump rock layer, thus retaining the
desired shear strength and preventing pos-
sible settling.
BELOW LEFT It was essential that the soil foundation was sufficiently solid in order to support a 20 m high round anaerobic digester
BELOW RIGHT Wherever soft soils with low bearing capacity are encountered RockGrid PC can be used as an effective and lasting reinforcement
The PC grid carries both the drainage characteristic as well as the high biaxial strength
Saving a historical wooden water pipelineAir release valves designed and manufactured in South Africa have helped save a 100-year-old wooden pipeline in Tasmania.
THE WOODEN PIPELINE was built as
par t of one of the southern hemi-
sphere’s first hydroelectric power
plant projects, near Lake Margaret,
Tasmania, in 1911. The lake was dammed
to raise its water level by 6 m, and a 2.2 km
woodstave pipeline constructed to transfer
water from the dam to the power station’s
turbines. Wood was chosen as the pipeline
material because it was cheaper than steel
at the time of construction, and was also
expected to last longer. For reasons that are
not clear, the original wood deteriorated very
quickly and was replaced in 1938 by pine,
allowing the line to remain in service until
2006, when the power station’s new owners,
Hydro Tasmania, closed it because of mainte-
nance costs. By that time, the line was wast-
ing a lot of water and had been dubbed by
one regional magazine “the world’s biggest
soaker hose”, a moniker that was per-
haps correct since, during the
2007 drought, leakage in
the pipe became so bad
that it drew down the
level of Lake Margaret
by a staggering 10%.
At the time, the pipe-
line was still under
pressure even though
the power station
was closed.
When the decision to close
the pipeline was taken, local
lobby groups pushed for it to be rebuilt,
as both the power station and its pipeline are
major tourist attractions and an important
par t of the local history.
Resulting from this, a new pipeline was
designed by Johnstone McGee and Gandy
(JMG) in Hobart and constructed by Hazell
Bros, with technical assistance from the
International Tank and Pipe Company,
Por tland, Oregon. The original woodstave
line was preserved in three sections.
To protect the restored pipeline against the
potential damage of surge and water ham-
mer, JMG chose South African Vent-O-Mat
valves, which are recognised worldwide as
the market leader in terms of useful life and
pipeline protection. The valves limit surge
and water hammer as a standard function
during pipeline filling, when most surge devic-
es are not yet operational, and deliver auto-
matic protection against column separation.
Under conditions of surge within the pipe-
line, they allow controlled air release through
a valve orifice aerodynamically engineered to
throttle air discharge when the velocity of the
approaching liquid would otherwise become
too great and induce an unacceptable pres-
sure rise.
This throttling action increases
resistance to the flow of the
Top The leaking woodstave pipeline in Tasmania before restoration Above The valves installed on the restored pipeline
One of the original woodstave lines preserved
approaching liquid, which decelerates. The
opposite extreme is experienced when a
pipeline experiences liquid column separa-
tion due to pump stoppage. Under these
conditions, Vent-O-Mat allows air into the
pipeline, but throttles its discharge as the
separated column begins to rejoin, reduc-
ing the impact velocity and alleviating high
surge pressures.
WATER EQUIPMENT
IMIESA October 2012 133
134 IMIESA October 2012
WATER EQUIPMENT
GBCSA’s removes PVC minimisation clauseBuilding contractors in South Africa can now enjoy the benefits of PVC piping products, following the GBCSA's announcement that it will remove the MAT-7 PVC minimisation clause from its green star tool rating system.
THE GREEN BUILDING Council of South
Africa (GBCSA) developed the Green
Star SA rating tool to provide the
local property industry with an objec-
tive measurement for green buildings, and to
recognise and reward environmental leadership
in the industry. The council initially introduced
the clause in 2007 to minimise the use of PVC
products in buildings, due to environmental
concerns with regards to the formulation, manu-
facturing process and end-of-life
disposal of PVC products.
Following negotiations with the
South African Vinyl’s Association
(SAVA), the GBCSA agreed to
adopt recommendations to
remove the MAT-7 PVC minimisa-
tion credit in its green star tool
rating system, provided that PVC
manufacturers adhere to best
practice conditions. DPI Plastics,
a leading manufacturer of water
reticulation, drainage and pipe-
fitting systems in South Africa,
has welcomed the decision.
“The MAT-7 minimisation
clause impacted negatively on
DPI Plastics’ sales, as contractors and archi-
tects would have been avoiding the use of PVC
pipes, in order to obtain a four or five star green
rating for their building. In the past, any projects
that used PVC would be penalised,” says Renier
Snyman, DPI Plastics product manager for pres-
sure pipe systems.
“In late 2011, the GBCSA completed a com-
prehensive credit review process for the Mat-7
PVC minimisation credit. The GBCSA Technical
Steering Committee (TSC) resolved to withdraw
the credit after considering the outcomes of
the credit review, which involved stakeholder
engagement through a PVC Expert Reference
Panel and precedents set by other green build-
ing councils surrounding the treatment of PVC
in green building rating tools,” adds GBCSA
CEO, Brian Wilkinson.
Snyman points out that the removal of the
clause means that the use of PVC products
now has a neutral impact on the green star
rating of a building in South Africa. The neu-
tral rating does, however, only apply to PVC manufacturers that meet best practice based
on the manufacture and recycling of the prod-
uct. “As a founding member of the South
African Plastic Pipe Manufacturers Association
(SAPPMA), DPI Plastics has committed itself to
these best practice methods.”
Snyman notes that due to its light weight,
high strength, low reactivity and corrosion
resistance, PVC is the best-suited material for
piping. “PVC has become the most popular pip-
ing product in South Africa, due to its unique
properties. What’s more, PVC pipes are almost
entirely leak-proof when joined together, mak-
ing it one of the most reliable piping products
in the industry too.”
He admits that the biggest challenge now
facing DPI Plastics is to inform and educate the
industry of the benefits of the removal of the
MAT-7 minimisation clause. “The most effective
method of highlighting the benefits of using PVC
products in green star projects will be through
word of mouth and product displays, in particu-
lar to non-residential building projects that are
focused on obtaining green star status.”
DPI Plastics will be marketing a wide range of
PVC products to green star projects during the
course of 2012. These include:
U-PVC: ‘Unplasticised’ or ‘rigid’ PVC has
been extensively used in the building industry
as a low-maintenance material in South Africa
for more than 50 years. U-PVC has strong
resistance against most chemicals
and oxidation from water.
• M-PVC: ‘modified’ PVC is a more
environmentally friendly product,
imparting greater ductility to the
pipe, with lower hydraulic friction
and pumping costs as a result of
a larger internal diameter.
• O-PVC: ‘oriented’ PVC, known
as Gemini Biax, has the thin-
nest wall thicknesses in the DPI
Plastics range, thanks to the
pipe molecules being orientated
in two directions to provide sub-
stantial strength and toughness,
making it the most energy-effi-
cient piping material in the DPI
Plastics range.
Snyman highlights the fact that DPI Plastics’
entire range of PVC piping products has numer-
ous advantages for environmentally conscious
building contractors. “Firstly, the energy con-
sumed in the manufacture of a PVC pipe is
considerably lower compared to a number of
traditional materials, which require high heat
and energy during the manufacturing process.
What’s more, PVC consists of more than 50%
b salt, which is available in abundance and is;
therefore, not as taxing on the environment
when compared to other materials. With this
in mind, I am confident that DPI Plastics can
achieve measurable growth in the sale of PVC
products in the short-term future, while keep-
ing a green eye trained on all our long term
futures,” he maintains.
DPI Plastics will be marketing a wide range of PVC products to green star projects
IMIESA October 2012 135
WATER EQUIPMENT
No slurry applicationtoo robust
In June 2012, Grindex received an order for 27 BRAVO 700 37 kW 50 Hz pump units, including control panels.
GRINDEX’S BRAVO SLURRY
pumps are designed for pumping
slurry and other fluids with high
concentrations of abrasives, like
sand and stones, delivering between 30
and 140 ℓ/s. Typical applications include
dredging, cleaning of settling ponds, coal
and ore slurries, bentonite, coal washing
water, steelworks, quarries, mines and many
other industries.
As pumping slurry is one of the most
demanding applications for any pump, parts
require maintenance and repair costs are
high. In many cases, frequent pump failures
lead to costly production downtime. Also,
excess sediment build-up in a sump cost time
and money to remove. Grindex has focused
on solving these problems by developing the
slurry pumps that can handle any high-wear
applications with an effective solution to the
rising costs of slurry handling.
Chris Heunes, Lester Fine and Klint Bawden of Grindex with 27 Grindex BRAVO 700 37 kW 50 Hz pump units developed to handle any high-wear applications
Online academy launched
THE KROHNE ACADEMY online is a web-based training
programme where customers can train themselves on
specific topics valid for the whole process industry,
and not only for Krohne.
The content provided does not represent adver tisement
either; Krohne decided to provide the content also on an
external platform, called Krohne Academy online. This platform
is dedicated to customers, prospects, students, etc. The men-
tioned target groups can train themselves on specific topics.
The registration and the use of the platform are completely
free of charge.
Register now for free: http://academy-online.krohne.com
136 IMIESA October 2012
DIAPHRAGM RUPTURE No problem Ecochem Pumps is importing a
new and highly accurate dosing pump with built-in protection against diaphragm rupture, targeted at local industrial and mining markets.
THE PRODUCT is the Maxroy hydraulically actuated double-
diaphragm dosing pump from Milton Roy Europe, a versa-
tile industrial design incorporating a cast iron casing and
stainless steel liquid end and check valves. Maximum
pump capacity is 1 100 ℓ/hour at a maximum pressure of 10 bar.
Manual control is standard, although the unit can be fitted with an
electrical or pneumatic stroke positioner. A variable speed drive
can also be used. The pump’s hydraulic
actuation eliminates the usual mechanical
linkage between reciprocating mechanism
components and the liquid end diaphragm.
Instead, a mechanical control spool piece
is set via the pump’s stroke adjustment knob, regulating the exact
amount of hydraulic fluid transferred from the pump reservoir cham-
ber in the liquid end, which in turn determines the amount of deflec-
tion of the diaphragm and the pump’s swept volume.
The result is a dosing flow rate accurate to between 1 and 2%
across the entire operating spectrum, and pump adjustment that can
be affected while the pump is running without damage to internal
gearbox components. The absence of a mechanical link also means
that discharge pressure on the process side of the diaphragm inside
the liquid end is equal to the pressure on the hydraulic side inside
the pump. The resulting absence of differential pressure across the
pump diaphragm reduces wear on it and extends diaphragm life.
A major feature of the Maxroy dosing pump is its double diaphragm
with rupture detection mechanism to provide increased safety and
operational redundancy. If the process diaphragm is perforated,
the rupture is immediately indicated by means of a pressure gauge
installed on the liquid end to detect such a fault. The remaining,
unruptured diaphragm allows the pump to continue running with only
negligible attenuation in hydraulic efficiency, and prevents ingress of
the process chemical into the gearbox. The benefit to the customer
is that there is time to plan for repair of the ruptured diaphragm
without pump downtime. A second key product feature is the internal
hydraulic over-pressure prevention system fitted as standard to all
models in the Maxroy range. Should the pump be started against a
closed valve on the discharge side, the pressure build-up in the liq-
uid end results in an internal pressure relief valve opening to release
hydraulic oil from the liquid end chamber back into the oil reservoir
chamber with each stroke. This prevents rupturing of the diaphragms
or, worse, a burst in the discharge process pipelines and the release
of harmful or corrosive chemicals. Other features of the Maxroy
pump range include a reciprocating mechanism lubricated by full
oil immersion, and robust process connections flanged to ensure
leak-free durability.
WATER EQUIPMENT
������������� ��� �� ��������� ������������������������
� � �� � � � �� � � ���� ������ ��� ���� �����
��
� � � � � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � �
� ��� � � � ���� � � � � � � � � ��� � � ��������� � ������������������ �!
Milton Roy Maxroy double-diaphragm dosing pumps
IMIESA October 2012 137
AIMED AT NON-TECHNICAL DECISION MAK-
ERS in national and local government, the
brochure promotes the use of concrete
block paving (CBP) for township roads.
Concrete Manufacturers Association director,
Hamish Laing, says although CBP has been used
extensively for township roads, the potential for its
fur ther use is immense.
“CBP has several advantages over asphalt, offering both practical
and important socio-economic benefits. Besides durability and low-
maintenance properties, CBP is aesthetically pleasing and is made
from 100% South African materials.”
The Concrete Manufacturers Association has updated its Township Roads paving brochure.
Updated township-roads brochure
Skills development paving manual launchedThe Concrete Manufacturers Association has introduced a skills-development paving manual, A step-by-step guide to per fect paving.
WHILE ITS PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVE is to generate employ-
ment opportunities, the manual is sufficiently informative
and technical, and will be used as a refresher material or
a paving ‘bible’ for contractors, both large and small. It
is also being offered to training and technical institutions to be incorpo-
rated into construction-related course material. The DIY paver will find the
manual of considerable benefit too.
Essentially a visual guide comprising hand-drawn illustrations with
captions, it covers all aspects of flexible concrete block paving, begin-
ning with the ordering of materials, tool selection and site preparation.
Tool selection includes safety equipment such as tight-fitting gloves,
safety boots and face protection. Subsequent sections cover the lay-
ing of edge restraints or kerbs, bedding-sand placement, laying and
compacting, and the use of jointing sand. Maintenance is dealt with in
the final section.
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
The manual was edited by former Concrete Manufacturers Association
(CMA) director and independent paving consultant, John Cairns, and the
illustrations were drawn by Anne Jonker-Colley.
CMA president, Taco Voogt, says that even the complete novice will be
able to lay concrete pavers by studying the manual.“However, if anyone
is unsure of any aspect and needs further information, they can contact
the CMA for a more detailed explanation,” comments Voogt.
“Another aim of the manual is to reduce the number of failures in the
concrete block paving industry, of which there are far too many. Most
paving failures result from insufficient or badly designed drainage and
inadequate earthworks, and the manual covers these aspects in detail.
“There are three important elements in the drainage of conventionally
paved surfaces, the correct falls (slopes), the surface drainage and the
sub-surface drainage. Any water which seeps into the bedding layer must
be properly drained. If not the whole structure is destabilised.”
The maintenance aspect was brought
to light recently when Lucain Paulik, Royal
Bafokeng Administration project man-
ager, said that in Nor thwest Province,
where 300 km have been paved with the
CBP, some R13 million was being saved on
maintenance annually.
Another benefit of CBP township projects is
they act as a spur for the improvement of the
properties adjacent to the roads.
“It is not uncommon for yards to be tidied, trees planted and houses
painted in the wake of newly-paved roads,” maintains Laing.
R20.00 incl. VAT
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO
PERFECT PAVING
MAK-
the
rete
or,
ed
s
ring both practical
rs
Th
to lig
Bafok
ager,
where
CBP, so
maintena
Another
they act a
CONCRETE BLOCK PAVING – THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE
TOWNSHIP ROADS
138 IMIESA October 2012
THE ESTATE COMPRISES 270 stands
each measuring between 5 000 and
15 000 m².
The exclusive use of concrete pav-
ers in several shapes and colours, as opposed
to any other surfacing material, has highlighted
the estate’s upmarket and rural pedigree.
The pavers, in the colours of charcoal, tan
and Sahara sand, were supplied by Aveng
Manufacturing Infraset Construction Products
Division and the actual paving work was exe-
cuted by REE Paving Contracts.
The bulk of the paving material require-
ment was met by 30 800 m² of Construction
Products’ Village Cobble, which was used to
pave the roads at Blue Hills. The remaining
paver complement in various textures, finishes
and colours were used on the traffic circles,
intersections and pavements, and comprised:
Classic Cobbles, Masonique, Parkay Split and
Cottage Stone.
Peter Fielden, a construction products
sales and marketing manager, says that
all intersections and traffic circles were
highly detailed and incorporated a mix of
paving products.
“Classic Cobble pavers were used at the
main intersections and traffic circles, and
these were interspersed with Parkay Split pav-
ing and natural rock to create an attractive
wagon-wheel effect. Moreover, the Parkay Split
pavers were laid upside down to take advan-
tage of their rough textured finish.
“To further enhance the rural effect, all road
kerbing was laid flat, i.e. on a level with the road
verges. Kerbing was constructed by means of
in-situ concrete and dump rock beam. Besides
enhancing the aesthetic aspect of the develop-
ment, the combination of finishes, textures
and colours served to clearly demarcate the
roads, traffic circles, intersections, paths and,
of course, kerbing,” advised Fielden.
Parkay Split pavers were also used to create
traffic calming rumble strips that, because of
their rough texture finish, allowed the height
of the speed bumps to be lowered. Pedestrian
An assortment of ±35 000 m² top-quality concrete block pavers, manufactured by Aveng Manufacturing Infraset, have been used Midrand’s Blue Hills Country and Equestrian Estate.
Top The gatehouse at the main entrance to Blue Hills where Classic Cobble pavers were interspersed with Parkay Split paving and natural rock to create an attractive wagon wheel effect
Inset A view of the main traffic circle at Blue Hills showing the wagon-wheel style traffic circle and the estate beyond
Above Cottage Stone pavers, as shown here on the main traffic circle pavement at Blue Hills, were selected for their rustic textures, which have blended well with the overall rural theme
Paving specifi ed for Midrand estate
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
paths were constructed with Cottage Stone
pavers, their rustic textures blending in well
with the overall rural theme.
Fielden says most pavers supplied
to Blue Hills were manufactured at Aveng
Manufacturing Infraset’s new Masa plant at
Rossway, Midrand. The others were produced
on its American Columbia machine, also based
at Rossway.
IMIESA October 2012 139
Off-the-shelf precast CRCP system developed
SKYLINE’S NEW POSTTEN SYS-
TEM, for which a patent is pending,
involves an ‘off-the-shelf’ cost-sav-
ing solution for concrete pavement
construction, in which Postten slabs are trans-
ported to site and laid on a dry sub-base to
form bi-directional ‘continuous’ roads.
Michael Kretzmann, MD of Skyline, says
Postten slab dimensions are within the stand-
ard guide for concrete floors – with the length
not greater than 30 times the thickness, and
the width less than 1.5 times the length –
which prevents drying shrinkage . “To allow for
transport to site with conventional transport
vehicles, the slab length is set at 2.5 m and
the width at the road lane width of 3 5 m.
Some self-supporting reinforcing is provided
to add rigidity and prevent cracks or fissures
during transport,” states Kretzmann.
Postten slabs with a 180-mm thickness
should effectively provide 60 to 80 years
operational life, he adds. “Postten is a long-
life system and will exceed the life expectancy
of standard continuously reinforced concrete
pavement (CRCP) pavements, therefore all
reinforcing and reinforcing mesh has a mini-
mum of 50 mm concrete cover,” he states.
The slabs feature hollow tubes and cones
to accommodate torque rods, which are fas-
tened and tightened together on site. The
rods are not loaded into the slabs until
placement to prevent them from being bent
in transport and avoid delays by not readily
locating the torque nut in the previous slab
during connections.
To enable adjacent slabs to butt up against
each other and ‘pass’ the torque rods from
slab to slab in both directions, female cones
are cast-in on all sides of the slab during pre-
casting at the Skyline
plant. The fastened
torque rod connection
provides an unbroken
length of rebar in the
longitudinal direction of
the Postten CRCP.
“This concealed locking of the reinforcing
torque bars, and the post-tensioning into one
continuous reinforced slab in both longitudinal
and transverse directions, sets the Postten
slab apart from other systems that are cur-
rently available. The concept also provides
resistance to transverse cracks,” Kretzmann
explains. “To accommodate road curves, only
the length dimension of the Postten slabs
would require alteration.”
Colloidal cement grout is pumped under pres-
sure in and around the torque rods and nuts to
provide an effective imitation of on-site cast-
ing. The moulds for Postten slabs are made
from profile-cut 6 mm steel sides, resting on
a 40 mm granite base to prevent warping and
mechanical damage. The solid steel frame
platform for the granite base and concrete can
be mounted on a wheel chassis or lifted by fork
lift after casting to a curing area.
Kretzmann says the Postten system provides
the solution for current concrete road building
problems such as shrinkage, long on-site con-
struction periods, and logistic limitations for
laying down pavements in more than one loca-
tion at a time. “There is also no need to control
temperature and other site conditions during
casting and curing, and the performance – as
well as costs and overheads – can now be pre-
dicted. With sufficient moulds, up to 150 m of
pavement can be placed in an eight-hour shift.
The slabs can also be overlaid with asphalt for
high-traffic national roads.
“A Postten system with thinner slabs of
say 150 mm would be ideal for factory or
warehouse floors, and for airport runways,
hard-standing and parking areas, the thickness
could be increased to 320 or 400 mm. What’s
more, future development could include adding
walls and service ducts to the slabs for human
settlement housing – and such housing could
even be moved…”
Kretzmann says
he and Allan Sutton,
Skyline’s design engi-
neer, were assisted
by former Portland
Cement Institute
(now the Cement &
Concrete Institute) concrete road doyen, Louis
Marais, and the C&CI’s current MD, Bryan
Perrie. Skyline intends making the Postten
system available for national use through the
allocation of manufacturing licences.
The development of the system is not Skyline’s
first involvement in concrete roads. Over
55 000 concrete barriers were manufactured
for Sanral’s Gauteng Freeway Improvement
Project (GFIP) by the Group, providing a turnkey
operation involving its precast, readymix, crane
and transport divisions for the challenging con-
tract. In addition to the temporary barriers and
permanent barriers manufactured for the GFIP,
Skyline also supplied bridge parapets, toll gan-
try blocks, special manholes for all the junction
cables on the medians, wing walls, light masts
and 30 m high list mast bases.
Conventional CRCP operations on the N12 highway in Gauteng
The Skyline Group has developed an innovative precast concrete road system based on proven continuously reinforced concrete pavement techniques.
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
The Postten system provides the solution for current concrete road building problems
140 IMIESA October 2012
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
THE UNIMOG OFFERS top off-road
performance and its manoeuvrabil-
ity makes it possible to go almost
anywhere, says Christo Kleynhans,
product manager: Mercedes-Benz Trucks at
Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA).
“The Unimog’s versatility gives it the edge
and there are not many, if any, other vehicles
that are more suited for fire fighting on hostile
terrains. The Unimog is used extensively for
rescue missions, fire fighting, flood rescue,
recovery and disaster management incidents
over the world, and its numerous applications
are legendary,” he explains.
The Unimog is a custom-made vehicle that
can be adapted to best suit each individual
When Kalagadi Manganese was looking for a rugged, robust and reliable vehicle to use for fire fighting, its choice fell on the Mercedes-Benz Unimog 4000.
Unimog to serve Kalagadi well
A decade of growthPump distributor Wilo South Africa is marking 10 years of sustained growth with the introduction of latest-technology pumps that outperform the world’s most demanding environmental protection levels.
A STEEP REDUCTION in electricity
consumption by newly developed
Wilo pumps is the result of the
German parent company’s response
to a European Union (EU)
directive calling on pump
manufacturers to pro-
duce more energy-efficient
pumps. “South Africa is a
direct beneficiary of this
directive,” says Wilo South
Africa managing director,
Errol Cornelius. “This is
a significant milestone in
Wilo’s contribution to the
extra dimensions to the Unimog, allowing
it to operate with strength, stability and
superior traction.
The Unimog chassis allows for an expanded
range of flexibility and requires some expert
engineering to fit the specialised equipment. It
takes four to six months to complete the pro-
cess and each Unimog fire engine is closely
inspected by Mercedes-Benz upon completion
to ensure it complies with its stringent stand-
ards and regulations.
The Unimog is a custom-made vehicle that can be adapted to best suit each individual customer’s needs and requirements
Wilo South Africa MD, Errol Cornelius
customer’s needs and requirements. The
chassis concept is what makes the Unimog
ideally suited for conversions and why others
struggle to compete. The chassis provides
development of South African industry and
national infrastructure.”
Two of the latest pumps are the Helix
and Stratos high-efficiency pumps, which Wilo
recently launched on
the South African
market. “They sig-
nificantly outper-
form the present EU
performance levels
as well as the even
stiffer levels still
to be applied in Europe for pumps of this
kind,” explains Cornelius. “Energy efficiency is
increasingly becoming the watchword in pump
selection by major users and one German
coal-mine has reported electricity consump-
tion savings of as much of 80% by using Wilo
Stratos pumps.”
From modest beginnings in a suburban
garage in December 2001, Wilo South Africa
has grown to become a major supplier of the
renowned Salmson and Wilo pumps and pump
systems for heating, ventilation and air condi-
tioning, bulk water delivery, water treatment
plants, power stations, mines, sewage treat-
ment and irrigation systems.
THEY HAVE DISCOVERED that
although their walls are insured with
the rest of their fixed properties,
when they fail, as some of them
inevitably do, their claims for the repair work
are often not met.
There are several legitimate reasons why
insurance companies don’t simply pay up
when presented with claims – inadequate
wall designs, poor workmanship and defec-
tive materials being some of the contributing
factors. However, by far the most common
escape clause relates to the fact that 95%
of the walls which fail weren’t designed by
structural engineers.
For insurance claims to have any chance
of success property owners must be able
to submit approved structural engineering
designs on walls higher than 1.5 m. This
is one of the basic conditions stipulat-
ed in a typical home or property owner’s
insurance policy.
President of the Concrete Manufacturers
Association (CMA), and vice president of
its Concrete Retaining Block Division, Silvio
Ferraris, says the abnormally high rainfall
pattern of late has seen a rise in retaining
wall failures.
“Most of the failures have occurred on
walls built either with stone or brick walls,
whereas the incidence on concrete retaining
block and in-situ concrete walls has been
relatively low.
“Many of the walls which have failed
recently were built 30 to 60 years ago and
most of the failures are caused by a rise in
the underground water pressure. However,
no matter how old the walls, provided prop-
er ty owners can produce a set of engineer-
ing drawings, their claims will usually be
regarded in a positive light. That said, there
are many instances in which the structural
drawings have either disappeared during
change of ownership, or simply did not exist
in the first place.
“Insurance policies cover subsidence and
landslip but exclude damage caused by exca-
vations and defective workmanship. Other
typical exclusions include normal settlement,
shrinkage, expansion or inadequate compac-
tion. However, defective workmanship and
inadequate compaction are very difficult to
prove especially if the project was supervised
by an engineer and more especially if pho-
tographs were taken during construction as
supporting evidence.
“People buying a house on steeply sloping
ground should establish whether the retain-
ing wall(s) on the property was designed by
a structural engineer and should ask for the
cer tification to prove it. If no documentation
can be produced the new owner should either
factor this in to the purchase price or get
the existing owner to have the wall properly
assessed by a structural engineer. This can
involve considerable expense as the engineer
may well recommend some improvements
such as proper drainage.
“Of course it goes without saying that any-
one wanting a new retaining wall built higher
than 1.5 m must get a structural engineer
involved, not only in the design of the wall
but also to ensure that the contractor follows
the design to the letter. Once the wall is built
a copy of the drawing and design cer tificate
should be lodged with the local council, and
the original should be kept by the owner as
record,” maintains Ferraris.
IMIESA October 2012 141
FAILED RETAINING WALLS
Are you covered?South African property owners are learning some hard lessons about failed retaining walls.
The pictures show two typical retaining wall failures, one of a brick wall and the other a stone wall
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
d i r e c t o r yCONFERENCESA
Surname:
Name:
Designation:
Company:
Type of business:
Address: Code:
Tel: Fax:
Cell:
E-mail:
Subscriber VAT Reg. No:
Order #:
EFT Deposit: Bank details Nedbank Branch code: 128405 Acc. number: 1284129934
Acc. type: current Acc. name: 3S MEDIA
Please use Ref: #:
Mastercard Visa
Expiry date: /
Credit Card Number
Last 3 digits on back of card:
Debit order – Please contact Accounts on 011 233 2600 to organise
I have read the terms and conditions below and I agree to abide by themAuthorizing signature: Date: Contact person for payments: E-mail:
Terms & Conditions
to follow.
subscriptions.
and cancelled if not paid by the date.
Fax or e-mail proof of payment to activate your subscription.
MEDIA
No.4 5th Avenue, Rivonia 2191 PO Box 92026, Norwood 2117
Tel: +27 (0)11 233 2600Share Call: 086 003 3300 Fax: +27 (0)11 234-7274/5www.3smedia.co.za
SUBSCRIBE
SUBSCRIPTION SALES
Chryso Southern Africa has six laboratories: four specialist laboratories for its Jet Park branch, and basic ones in Cape Town and Durban.
Innovation and customer support
preset criteria are dispatched to customers.
The research and development laboratory has
overall management responsibility for the qual-
ity control lab and the colour lab. The primary
functions of the research and development lab
are quality control, new product evaluation,
existing product optimisation, and product
comparison and product complaint evaluation.
The latter four functions are normally always
performed in conjunction with the concrete lab,
while the quality control function is evaluated
jointly only when the need arises.
THESE LABORATORIES ASSIST in giv-
ing daily technical support to its cus-
tomers, while upholding high levels of
quality control.
The first laboratory was established 15 years
ago, at the same time of the commencement
of its operations in South Africa. This was fol-
lowed by the research and development lab,
coupled by the concrete lab in 2004. In 2007,
the research and development lab was aug-
mented by the colour lab.
The quality control laboratory’s main func-
tion lies in its title: it measures the quality of
all products produced locally by the company.
This ensures that only products that meet
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Chryso lab assistant Tumiso Makhabedu and mixer
We take this opportunity to invite you to purchase this collectors item:
ORDER FORM
For invoicing purposes:Name: ______________________
Address: ______________________
______________________
______________________
Postal Code: ______________________ VAT Number:_________________
Contact No: ______________________
Number of Hard Copies @ R455.00 Including VAT _________
Number of Soft Copies @ R200.00 Including VAT _________
Please complete and return to IMESA at fax 031-266-5094 or email: [email protected]
An journey through time ReflectionsContact IMESA at 031-266-3263 or more info.
IMESA
VAT Number:
E-mail: ______________________
IMIESA October 2012 143
144 IMIESA October 2012
INDEX TO ADVERTISERS Abeco Tanks 41
Ammann Construction Machinery South Africa
58
Aquadam 18
Aquatan IFC
Arcus Gibb 95
Armco Superlite 61
Aveng Manufacturing Infraset 94
Bell Equipment 65
Bigen Africa 80
BKS 24
Bosch Stemele 4
BVI Consulting 99
Cascade 66
Cement & Concrete Institute 85
CLM Positioning Solution 72
CSM Engineering OFC
Dick King Lab 56
DPI Plastics 45
Du Pont South Africa 54
Dynamic Fluid Control 38
Elster Kent Metering 46
Fiberpipe 53
Fibretex 50
Frontier Pipeline Services 48
Hall Longmore 40
HHO Africa 100
IMQS Software 92
Incledon 86
Jan Palm Consulting 117
Jeffares & Green 104
Kaytech 60
Knight Piesold 103
Krohne South Africa 37
Lafarge Industries 68
Le Blanc Jasco 109
Lesira-Teq 124
Lekwa Consulting Engineers 90
Light Kinetics Inc 102
Letratek Water Technology 39
Martin East 98
Mercedes Benz Freightliner 23
Model Maker Systems 126
MPA 130
Much Asphalt 62
Murray & Roberts Building Products 78
National Asphalt 64
National Cold Asphalt 76
NedBank 15
Osborn Engineered Products 63
Polokwane Surfacing 74
Rainbow Reservoirs 33
Rand Water 35
Sabita 57
SBS Group 42 & 43
Schneider Electric 118
SIKA 44
SNA Civil and Structural Engineers 106
Southern Mapping 16 & 17
SRK Consulting 129
Sturctacom 108
Talbot and Talbot 20
Tecroveer 30
Terraforce 136
The Concrete Manufacturers Association 11
Total Geospatial Information Solutions 110
Transtech Manufacturing 2
Trenchless Technologies OBC
TT Innovations 32
TWP 84
Utility Systems 88
UWP 101
Vela Vke 121
Verder Pumps 52
Velocity Road Rehabilitation 70
Vermeer Equipment Suppliers 34
Videx Storage Tanks 96
Water & Sanitation Services 28
WRP Consulting Engineers IBC
Zest WEG Group 26
Zitholele Consulting 97
THE BIGGEST BUTTERFLY VALVES that
this leading manufacturer of high-qual-
ity valves has supplied to the local
market to date comprised of DN2500
valve bodies and discs, weighing 5 and 6.5 t
respectively, to be used on isolation duty.
With diameters of 2.5 m (inside) and 3.5 m
(outside), each fully assembled valve weighs
Supplying product in record timeKew Foundries has just completed a multimillion rand order for Gunric Valves – to cast seven valve bodies
around 13.5 t. The valves are pressure rated
for 10 bar. The valve bodies and discs were
cast from SG Iron, ideal for this application due
to its good pressure-rating and tensile-strength
and corrosion properties. Having received the
order in October 2011, KEW Foundries man-
aged to deliver in less than four months as per
the client’s requirement, despite the period
coinciding with the festive season. The first
four sets were provided in November, two
arrived at Gunric Valves’ factory in December,
and the last followed in January 2012.
KEW Foundries also assisted Gunric Valves
with the pattern-making for this order, and
acted as consultants for the project.
KEW Foundries supplied Gunric Valves with seven DN2500 valve bodies and discs, weighing 5 and 6.5 t each, respectively, to be used on isolation duty
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
300 000 metres of
TRENCHLESS PIPESuccessfully Installed
RENOVATE EXISTING PIPES BY:
INSTALLATION OF NEW PIPES BY:
Countrywide 08600 66 344